Lives of the heroes of the American Revolution : comprising the lives of Washington and his generals and officers who were the most distinguished in the War of the Independence of the U.S.A. ; Also, embracing the Declaration of Independence and signers' names; the Constitution of the United States and amendments ; Together with the inaugural, first annual and farewell addresses of Washington. Embellished with portraits

LIVES OF THE HEROES

AMERICAN revolution:

COMPKISING

THE LIVES OF WASHINGTON AND HIS GENERALS
AND OFFICERS WHO WERE THE MOST DIS-
TINGUISHED IN THE WAR OF THE IN-
DEPENDENCE OF THE U. S. A. ;

ALSO — EMBRACING

THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCB

AND signers' names ;

THE COIMSTITUTIOIN OF THE UNITED STATES

AND AMENDMENTS ;

TOGETHER WITH THE INAUGUEAL, FIRST ANNUAL
AND FAREWELL ADDRESSES OF WASHINGTON.

Hmbellisljeii toitl) 33ovtrait».

R O ^ T' O TV •

V^^ 110 Washington Street. <

Mi/^RINE CC^PC .: .-. - M

Entered according lo Act of Congress, in the year 1S47, by
PHILLIPS & SAMPSON,

111 tlie Clerk's Office of ilie District Court for tha District of

Massac iiusetls.

.■■'^■^'

Wm£ CORPS
MAY 59 1972

t^Q^/

!«r ^= ■"-

CONTENTS.

LIVES OF OFFICERS.

George Washington

Paga
7

Nathaniel Greene -

-

27

Daniel Morgan

76

John Stark - - - -

-

90

Hugh Mercer . - -

-

106

Ethan Allen - - -

-

115

John Cadwalader -

-

126

Thomas Conway -

-

130

Wm. Richardson Davie -

-

134

Christopher Gadsden

-

142

Horatio Gates . - -

-

151

Nathan Hale - - -

-

173

Isaac Hayne - - - -

V

179

VI

CONTENTS.

Charles Lee - - - -

Pag«

- 184

John Sullivan - . - -

- 201

Joseph "Warren - - - -

- 208

John Laurens - - - -

- 231

Thomas Mifflin - - - -

- 239

Gilbert Mottier Lafayette

- 241

Declaration of Independence

- 286

Constitution of the United States -

- 295

Amendments to the Constitution -

- 318

Washington's Inaugural Address -

- 324

Washington's First Annual Address

- 332

Washington's Farewell Address

. 339

THE

HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

GEORGE WASHINGTON.

George Washington was born on the 22d
of February, 1732, on the banks of the river
Potomac, in Virginia. His father dying when
he was ten years old, he received a plain but
useful education at the hands of his mother.
He soon manifested a serious and contemplative
disposition, and in his thirteenth year drew up
a code of regulations for his own guidance, in
which the germs are visible of those high prin-
ciples which regulated his conduct in mature
life. As a boy, he conceived a liking for the
naval service, but, being dissuaded from this,
he qualified himself for the occupation of a
land-surveyor; and, at the age of eighteen,
obtained, through his relation, Lord Fairfax,
the office of Surveyor of the Western District
of Virginia. This introduced him to the notice
of Governor Dinwiddie, and in the following

8

HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

year he was appointed one of the Adjutant-
Generals of Virginia, with the duty of training
the militia.

The boundaries of the British and French pos-
sessions in America were at that time subjects
of dispute. In 1753 Washington was sent on
a mission to the French settlement on the Ohio,
which he executed successfully; and on his
return published a journal of his route, whicli
attracted much notice. In the following year
he was less fortunate, being taken prisoner with
his party, while in command of an expedition
against the French. Being allowed to retvu-n
home, he withdrew from the service, and went
to reside at Mount Vernon, an estate which des-
cended to him on the death of an elder brother.
In 1755 he accepted the rank of Aide-de-camp
to General Braddock, and was present at the
surprise of the British in the woods near the
Monongahela, Avhere his coolness, courage, and
knowledge of Indian warfare, chiefly contrib-
uted to the preservation of a handful of the
troops. He escaped unhurt, but had three horses
killed under him, and his dress was four times
pierced with rifle-balls. Having gained much
credit by his conduct on this occasion, Washing-
ton was next employed to defend the western

WASHINGTON. »

frontier against the incursions of the French
and Indians. He concluded this harassing ser-
vice at the end of four years, by reducing Fort
du Quesne, and driving the French beyond the
Ohio ; and then resigned his commission.

After his return to Mount Vernon, in 1759,
Washington married ; and during the next four-
teen years his time was divided between his
duties as a member of the Colonial Assembly
and agricultural pursuits, in which he took great
interest. The disputes which preceded the Re-
volution again drew him from private life. He
maintained that the Americans were entitled to
all the rights of British subjects, and could not be
taxed by a legislature in which they were not
represented ; and he recommended that,^on the
failure of peaceful and constitutional resistance,
recourse should be had to arms. In 1774 the
command of the troops raised by Virginia was
given to him; and in 1775 he represented that
State in the Convention held at Philadelphia.
When the war began, Washington was chosen
Commander-in-Chief of the Americaa Army ;
an office which he accepted without remunera-
tion, saying, that emolument would not have
tempted him to forego the pleasures of private
life, and that he should only require to have his

10 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

expenses reimbursed. His private letters have
since proved that his object, at that time, was
not to procure separation from England; but
his alacrity in entering into the contest, and his
constancy throughout its continuance, refute
the insinuation, only countenanced by certain
forged letters, that he was not hearty in the
cause of independence.

About fourteen thousand people were at this
time collected around Boston, where General
Gage was held in a state of siege. Washington
reached the colonial camp in July, 1775, and
proceeded to give to the assembled multitude
the form and discipline of a regular force. His
next endeavours were to extend the period for
which men enlisting were obliged to serve, and
to ensure the maintenance of the troops by
appointing a Commissary-General to collect
supplies, instead of depending for them on the
voluntary and uncertain contributions of the
several States. Neither of these wishes was
complied with, and the want of every requisite
obliged Washington to change the siege into a
blockade, until the following March, when,
having obtained artillery and engineers, he
forced the English to give up the town and
embark on board their fleet. His conduct during:

WASHINGTON^ • 1 1

this siege is admirable, both for the resohition
with which he maintained the blockade with
an inferior army composed of untried men, and
the patience with which he endured the re-
proaches of the people, to whom the real diffi-
culties of his situation, with respect to arms
and ammunition, could not be disclosed. He
also established the principle, that captured
Americans should be treated as prisoners of war.
In April, 1776, Washington anticipated
the British in occupying New York, and the
adjacent islands. Before the arrival of
Lord Howe, in July, independence was pro-
claimed ; and the American general refused to
negotiate unless acknowledged as the function-
ary of an independent government, saying, that
America, being her own mistress, and having
committed no fault, needed no pardon. A
severe defeat on Long Island, and subsequent
losses, compelled him to abandon the State of
New York to the English, to retreat with great
loss through New Jersey, and to take shelter
behind the Delaware, near Philadelphia. He
showed much skill in preventing the British
from taking advantage of these reverses, which
he sought to repair by surprising their posts at
Trenton and Princetown, in Jersey, where he

12

HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

made many hundred prisoners. These successes
were well timed, and revived the broken spirit
of the country.

In 1 777 Washington applied to Congress for
more extensive powers, which were granted
him, with the title of Dictator, by which he
was empowered to act on his own responsibility
m all military affairs. But he was not supplied
with th'e means of acting effectually ; and the
campaign of that year was one of misfortunes,
the Americans being defeated at Brandywine,
and forced to yield Philadelphia to the English.
During the winter months Washington occupied
a fortified camp at Valley Forge, and his army,
ill-supplied with anomunition and provisions,
was daily in danger of being destroyed by
hunger or the enemy. He freely expressed his
opinion to Congress of their misconduct, and
his remarks occasioned a faction which desired
to displace him from his command, and to
substitute General Gates; but this was never
seriously attempted.

The campaign of 1778 was favourable to
Washington; he recovered Philadelphia, and
following Clinton in his retreat through New-
Jersey, brought him to action at Monmouth.
The issue of this engagement gave new confi-

WASHIKGTOxV. 1 3

dence to the people, and completely restored
him to the good will of Congress. During the
years 1779 and 1780 the war was actively
carried on in the South, and Carolina and
Virginia were reduced by the British. In the
autumn of 1780 Major Andre, who had been
sent by Clinton to concert with Arnold measures
for betraying the post at West Point, was seized
within the American lines, and tried and hanged
as a spy. Whatever were the merits or mis-
fortunes of the British officer, the duty of
Washington was too plain to be mistaken, and
the obloquy he incurred in its performance
was undeserved,

Washington had throughout contended that
the country could only be delivered by raising
a permanent army, and consolidating the union
of the States, so as to form a vigorous govern-
ment. Five years' experience had taught
Congress the inefficiency of temporary armies,
and they resolved to form a permanent one with
a system of half-pay and pensions, as an in-
ducement to enter the service. But as the
government of each State was empowered to
levy its own taxes, and conduct all the mea-
sures for carrying this resolve into effect, such
delav was occasioned, that although Count

14 • HEROES OF THE DEVOLUTION.

Rochambeaii arrived from France in Augnist,
1780, with an auxiliary force of five thousand
men, the American army could not actively
co-operate with him during that year.

The temporising policy pursued by the States
had severely tried the constancy of Washing-
ton, but did not lead him to despair of final
success. The army, suffering extreme want,
was kept in the field chiefly by attachment to
his person. Attentive to alleviate their hard-
ships, he did not permit any disorderly license ;
and although early in 1781 he allowed Congress
to pacify the revolted troops, he, on a second
occasion, shortly after, forcibly compelled the
mutineers to submit, and summarily tried and
executed many o*f them.

The pecuniary aid of France, and increased
activity of the American Government, enabled
Washington to resume offensive measures in
the summer of 1781. Earl Cornwallis, then
in Virginia, and but feebly opposed by La-
Fay ette, sent a, part of his army to strengthen
Clinton in New York. Shortly after De Grasse
arrived off the coast of Virginia with a French
fleet. Washington took advantage of this con-
juncture to transfer the war to the South.
Deceiving Clinton as to his real design, he

WASHINGTON. 15

marched rapidly through New Jersey and
Maryland, and, embarking his army on the
Chesapeake, effected a junction at Williamsburg
with La Fayette. By the combined operation
of their forces, assisted by the fleet under De
Grasse, Lord Cornwallis was compelled to
surrender at York Town, with his whole force,
October 19, after a siege of thirteen days.
This event decided the war ; but Washington
remained watchful to preserve the advantages
gained, and to provide for future contingencies,
until 1783, when a general peace was
concluded.

Washington then prepared to resume his
station as a private citizen. The army had
become disaffected towards the States, and ap-
peared not unwilling to subvert the freedom of
their country, if the general had sought his
own aggrandisement. But he nobly rejected
all such schemes, and persuaded the soldiers to
return home, and trust to the assurance of Con-
gress for the discharge of the arrears due to
them. Having publicly taken leave of his
officers, he repaired to Annapolis, and December
23, 1783, appeared in Congress, and resigned
his commission. He also presented the account
of his receipts and expenditure during the late

16 HEROES OP THE KEVOLUTION.

war, the items of which were entered in his
own handwriting. His expenditure amounted
to <£l9j306, and it subsequently appeared that
he had applied considerable sum-s of his own
to the public service, which he neglected to
claim. He asked no favour or reward for
himself, except that his letters should be free
from postage, but he strongly recommended to
Congress the claims of his late arm.y.

Having delivered a farevv^ell address to Con-
gress, and forwarded one of a like character to
the government of each State, pointing out the
advantages they at present possessed, and giving
his advice as to the future conduct of their
affairs, he retired to JNIount Vernon to enjoy the
pleasures of private life. But although the
Tiext two years were passed in retirement, the
mind of Washington was actively directed to
public affairs. Beside maintaining a correspon-
dence with the most eminent men, as well in
Europe as in his own country, he was engaged
in various projects to promote the agricultural
and commercial interests of his native State.
Under his direction, companies were formed to
improve the navigation of the rivers James and
Potomac, thus making Virginia the trading mart
of the Western States. A number of shares

WASHINGTON. 17

m the James River Company, which were pre-
sented to him in 1785 by the legislature of
Virginia, he employed in founding the college
in Virginia, now called by his name. His
deference to the popular feelings and prejudices
on the subject of liberty was shown in his
conduct with regard to the Cincinnati, a military
society of which he was president, instituted
to commemorate the occurrences of the late
war. An outcry was raised that the honours
conferred by this society being hereditary, a
titled order would be created in the State.
Washington therefore prevailed on the members
to annul the offensive regulations, and to agree
that the society should cease at the termination
of their lives.

The want of union amongst the States, and
the incapacity of the government, engaged the
attention of every able man in America, and
more especially interested Washington, who
desired to witness the establishment of a great
republic. The principal defect of the existing
government was, that no acts of Congress in
forming commercial treaties, borrowing money,
or introducing national regulations, were
binding on the individual States, each of which
pursued its own interests, without showing any
2* . -

18 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

disposition to redeem the engagements of the
government with the public creditors, either at
home or abroad. Washington's principles were
democratic ; but he was opposed to those who
contended for the absolute independence of the
individual States, being convinced that each
must sacrifice a portion of its liberty for the
security of the whole, and that, without an
energetic central o-overnment, the confederation
would be insignificant. His representations to
the Congress and the individual States, backed
by the increasing distress of the country, at
length brought about the Convention of Phila-
delphia, which met in May, 1787, and having
chosen Washington president, continued sitting
until September, when the federal constitution
was finally decided on, and was submitted to
the States for their approval.

Having acquitted himself of this duty, Wash-
ington retired to private life until March, 1789,
when he was elected President of the United
States. He had used no exertion to obtain this
distinction, which his impaired health and love
of retirement rendered unsuitable to him : he,
however, accepted it, and his journey to New
York was one continued triumph. April 30,
he took the oaths prescribed by the constitution,

WASHINGTON. 1 9

and delivered his inaugural address, in which
he dwelt most fully on his own reasons for
again entering on public life, and on the duties
incumbent upon members of the Congress.
He declared that he would receive no remune-
ration for his services, and required that a
stated sum should be allowed for defraying the
expenses of his office.

The President of the Union being a new
political personage, it became requisite to
establish certain observances of etiquette
towards him. Washington's arrangements in
this respect were sufficiently simple, yet they
excited jealousy, as savouring of regal and
courtly customs. The restriction placed on
the admission of idle visitors, who hourly in-
truded on him, caused much offence, and be-
came the subject of remonstrance, even from
intelligent men.

One of the first acts of Washington's ad-
ministration was to empower the legislature to
become responsible for the general debt of the
States, and to levy taxes for the punctual
discharge of the interest upon it. The opera-
tion of the new government was in every
respect satisfactory, its beneficial influence
being apparent in the increasing prosperity of

20 HEROES OF TIIE REVOLUTlOISr.

the country ; and before the end of the second
year's presidency, Rhode Island and North
Carolina, which at first were dissentient, desired
to participate in the benefits of the Union, and
were admitted as members. In 1790 Wash-
ington concluded a treaty with the hostile
Indians on the Southern frontier : but the war
which he directed against the Indians on the
North Western frontier was unfortunate, the
American forces sustaining three severe defeats
Upon the whole, however, the period of his
first presidency passed over prosperously and
tranquilly. He was annoyed by occasional
differences in his cabinet, and by the discontent
of the anti-federal party ] but being supported
by John Adams, Hamilton, and other able men,
his government suffered no real embarrassment.
In 1792, as he possessed the general confi-
dence of the people, he was unanimously re-
elected President : and in March, 1793, again
took the oaths of office. The French Revolu-
tion was hailed with joy by the Americans,
among whom an almost universal wish pre-
vailed to assist in establishing, as they thought,
true freedom in Europe. But Washington per-
ceived that the real interests of his country
required peace. He acknowledged the govern*

WASHINGTON.

21

ment of the French Republic, and sent an am-
bassador to Paris ; but declared his resolution
to adopt a strict neutrality in the contest be-
tween France and the allied powers of Europe.
Still the enthusiasm in favour of the French
continued to increase j and, at the instigation
of M. Genet, envoy from Paris, privateers,
were armed in the American ports, and sent
to cruise against the British. Washington
promptly suppressed this practice; and the
conduct of Genet having been intemperate and
insolent towards the President, and calculated
to produce serious disturbance in the States, he
took the requisite steps for having him recalled.

The determination of the President to pre-
serve peace was not the only ground of pop-
ular discontent. The imposition of excise
taxes, as they were termed by the people,
excited serious murmurings; and, in 1794, a
general rising took place in Pennsylvania,
which was put down without bloodshed by a
vigorous display of force, and the principals,
after being condemned to death, were pardoned.

The ferment among the people made a war
with England seemingly unavoidable. Wash-
ington, at this juncture, appointed Mr. Jay
envoy to England, with full powers to conclude

22

HEROES OF THE KEVOLUTION.

a treaty, in which all points then at issue be-
tween the two nations should be adjusted.
With the concurrence of the Senate he ratified
this treaty, regardless of the outcry raised
against it; and subsequently upheld the au-
thority of the President, in refusing to permit
the House of Representatives to revise the
articles it contained. The people soon per-
ceived that the advantages to be derived from
the contentions in Europe made it impolitic for
their own country to become a party to them,
and confidence and good will towards the
President were in a great measure restored.
These favourable dispositions were confirmed
by the termination of a successful war against
the Indians, and by a treaty with Spain, by
which the navigation of the Mississippi to the
Ocean was secured to the Americans. -

Among the acts which immediately proceed-
ed from Washington during his presidency,
were those for forming a fund to pay oiF the
national debt, and for organising the militia of
the country. He was active and sssiduous in
his duties as chief magistrate, miaking tours
through the States, and ascertaining the pro-
gressive improvement in each, and the means
which would most tend to increase it. The

WASHINGTON.

23

limited powers conferred on the President pre-
vented his effecting so much as he desired, and
the public measures originating from him were
but few. He declined being nominated a third
time to the office of President, and on his re-
tirement published an address to the people of
the United States, in which, after remarking
on the condition and prospects of the country,
he insisted on the necessity of cementing the
union of the States, and upholding the su-
premacy of the Federal Government ; he also
advised them never to admit the influence of
foreign powers, and to reap benefit from the
quarrels amongst the States of Europe, by re-
maining at peace with all.

Washington passed the rest of his days at
Mount Vernon, engaged in the society of his
friends, and in the improvement of his estate.
He was for several years a member of the
British Agricultural Association ; and the efforts
he made to form a similar society in America,
and his letters to Sir John Sinclair, (a fac-simile
copy of which is deposited in the British
Museum,) show the interest he took in agri-
cultural affairs. He died December 13, 1799,
in his sixty-eighth year, after a few days' ill-
ness, and was buried at Mount Vernon. He

^4f fifiROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

left no family. Congress suspended its sitting
on receiving the intelligence of his death, and
a public mourning v^as ordered for him.

In person, Washington was robust, and above
the middle height. He was thoughtful and
reserved, without being repulsive j and his
manners were those of the old school of
English gentlemen. Although mild and hu-
mane, he was stern in the performance of duty,
and never, upon such occasions, yielded to
softness or compassion. His speeches and
official letters are simple and earnest, but
wanting perhaps in that conciseness, which
marks vigour of thought. Whilst President,
he was assailed by the violence of party spirit.
On his decease his worth was justly appreciated,
and the sorrow at his loss was universal and
sincere. /Washington was distinguished less
by the brilliancy of his talents than by his
moral goodness, sound judgment, and plain but
excellent understanding.* His admirable use of
those sterling, though homely qualities has
gained a rank for him among the greatest and
best of men ; and his name will be coexistent,
as it was coeval, with that of the empire, of
which, no less by his rare civil wisdom than

WASHINGTON. 25

his eminent military talents, he may be
considered the founder.

The virtues which distinguish him from all
others who have united the fame of statesman
and captain, were two-fold, and they are as
great as they are rare. He refused power
which his own merit had placed within his
reach, constantly persisting in the preference
of a republican to a monarchial form of govern-
ment, as the most congenial to liberty when it
is not incompatible with the habits of the
people and the circumstances of society j and
he even declined to continue longer than his
years seemed to permit at the head of that
commonwealth which he had founded. This
subjugation of all ambitious feelings to the
paramount sense of duty is his first excellence ;
it is the sacrifice of his own ao-o-randisement to
his country's freedom. The next is like unto
it ; his constant love of peace when placed at
the head of affairs : this was the sacrifice of
the worthless glory which ordinary men prize
the most, to the tranquillity and happiness of
mankind. Wherefore to all ages and in all
climes, they who most love public virtue will
iiold in eternal remembrance the name of

26 HEROES OF THE KEVOLUTION.

George Washington ; never pronouncing it but
with gratitude and awe, as designating a mortal
removed above the ordinary lot of human
frailty.

The words of his last will in bequeathing
his sword to his nephews — ^the sword which
he had worn in the sacred war of liberty —
ought to be graven in letters of gold over every
palace in the world :/^ This sword they shall
never draw but in defence of freedom, or of
their country, or of their kindred ; and when
thus drawn, they shall prefer falling with it in
their hands to the relinquishment thereof.'V

For farther information we refer to the
works of Ram.say and Marshall; and to the
Correspondence of Washington, published by
Mr. Sparkes.

NATHANIEL GREENE,

Major-General in the American Army.

General Greene, although descended from
ancestors of elevated standing, was not indebted
to the condition of his family for any part of
the real lustre and reputation he possessed.
He was literally the founder of his own fortune,
and the author of his own fame. He was the
second son of Nathaniel Greene, a member of
the society of Friends, an anchor-smith.

He was born in the year 1741, in the town
of Warwick, and county of Kent, in the
province of Ehode Island. Being intended by
his father for the business which he himself
pursued, young Greene received at school
nothing but the elements of a common English
education. But to him, an education so limited
was unsatisfactory. With such funds as he
was able to raise, he purchased a small, but
well-selected library, and spent his evenings,
and all the time he could redeem from his
father's business, in regular study.

At a period of life unusually early, Greime
was elevated, by a very flattering suffrage, to a

27

28 IIEEOES OF THE REVOLUTION.

seat ill the legislature of his native colony.
This Avas the commencement of a public
career, which, heightening as it advanced, and
flourishing in the midst of difficulties, closed
with a lustre that was peculiarly dazzling.

Thus introduced into the councils of his
country, at a time when the rights of the
subject, and the powers of the ruler, were
beginning to be topics of liberal discussion, he
felt it his duty to avow his sentiments on the
momentous question. Nor did he pause or
waver, as to the principles he should adopt,
and the decision he should form. He was in-
flexibly opposed to tyranny and oppression in
every shape, and manfully avowed it. But his
character, although forming, was not com-
pletely developed until the commencement of
the troubles which terminated in our independ-
ence. It was then that he aspired to a head in
the public councils ; and throwing from him,
as unsuitable to the times, the peaceful habits
in which he had been educated, sternly declared
for a redress of grievances, or open resistance.
This open departure from the sectarian prin-
ciples in which he had been educated, was
followed, of course, by his immediate dismission
from the society of Friends.

NATHANIEL GREENE.

29

The sword was earliest unsheathed in the
colony of Massachusetts ; and on the plains of
Lexington and Concord, the blood of British
soldiers and American subjects mingled first in
hostile strife. Nor was Ehode Island, after
that sanguinary affair, behind her sister colonies,
in gallantry of spirit and promptitude of
preparation.

Greene commenced his military pupilage in
the capacity of a private soldier, in October,

1774, in a military association, commanded by
James M. Varnum, afterward brigadier-general.
But Rhode Island having, in the month of May,

1775, raised three regiments of militia, she
placed them under the command of Greene,
who, without loss of time, conducted them to
head-quarters, in the village of Cambridge.

On the 2d of July, 1775, General Wash-
ington, invested by Congress with the command
in chief of the armies of his country, arrived
at Boston. Greene availed himself of an early
opportunity, amid the public demonstration of
joy, to welcome the commander-in-chief, in a
personal address, in which, with much warmth
of feeling and kindness of expression, he
avowed his attachment to his person, and the

high gratification he derived from the prospect
3^=

30 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

of being associated with him in arms, and
serving under him in defence of the violated
rights of his countr}^

This was a happy prelude to a friendship
between these two great and illustrious officers,
which death alone had the power to dissolve.
It is a fact of notoriety, that when time and
acquaintance had made him thoroughly ac-
quainted with the character and merits of
General Greene, Washington entertained, and
frequently expressed, an anxious wish, that in
case of his death he might be appointed his
successor to the supreme command.

During the investment of Boston by the
American forces, a state of things which lasted
for months, no opportunity presented itself to
Greene to acquire distinction by personal
exploit. But his love of action, and spirit of
adventure, were strongly manifested; for he
was one of the few officers of rank who con-
curred with General Washington in the pro-
priety of attempting fo carry the town by
assault.

On the evacuation of Boston by the British,
the American troops were permitted to repose
from their toils, and to exchange, for a time,
the hardships and privations of a field encamp-

NATHANIEL GREENE. 31

ment tor the enjoyment of plenty in comfort-
able barracks. During this j^eriod of relaxation,
Greene continued \vith unabating industry his
military studies, and as far as opportunity
served, his attention to the practical duties of
the field. This course, steadily pursued, under
the immediate supervision of Washington,
could scarcely fail to procure rank, and lead to
eminence. Accordingly, August 26, 1776, he
was promoted by Congress to the rank of major-
general in the regular army.

A crisis, most glowing and portentous to the
cause of freedom, had now arrived. In the
retreat which now commenced through New-
Jersey, General Washington was accompanied
by General Greene, and received from him all
the aid that, under circumstances so dark and
unpromising, talents, devotion, and firmness
could aiiord. Possessed alike of an ardent
temperament, hearts that neither danger nor
misfortune could appal, and an inspiring trust
m the righteousness of their cause, it belonged
to the character of these two great and illus-
trious commanders, never for a moment to
despair of their country. Hope and confidence,
even now, beamed from their countenances,
and they encouraged their followers, and sup-

32 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

ported them under the pressure of defeat and
misfortune.

Greene was one of the council of Wash-
ington who resolved on the enterprise of De-
cember 26, 1776, against the post of the enemy
at Trenton. The issue is known, and is
glorious in our history. About one thousand
Hessians, in killed, wounded, and prisoners,
with their arms, field-equipage, and artillery,
were the trophies of that glorious morning,
which opened on the friends of American
freedom with the day-star of hope. He was
again of the council of the com^mander-in-chief,
in planning the daring attack, January 2, 1777,
on the British garrison at Princeton, as well as
his associate in achieving its execution. In
both these brilliant actions, his gallantry,
prudence, and skill being alike conspicuous, he
received the applauses of his commander. He
continued the associate and most confidential
counsellor of Washington through the gloomy
and ominous period that followed.

In the obstinate and blood}^ battle of Brandy
wine, General Greene, by his distinguished
conduct, added greatly to his former renown.
In the coiu-se of it, a detachment of American
troops, commanded by General Sullivan, being

NATHANIEL GREENE. 33

unexpectedly attacked by the enemy, retreated
in disorder, General Greene, at the head of
Weedon's Virginia brigade, flew to their sup-
port. On approaching, he found the defeat of
General Sullivan a perfect rout. Not a moment
was to be lost. Throwing himself into the
rear of his flying countrymen, and retreating
slowly, he kept up, especially from his cann n,
so destructive a fire, as greatly to retard he
advance of the enemy. Aiming at lengtl at a
narrow defile, secured on the right and J it by
thick woods, he halted, sent forward his cannon,
that they might be out of danger, in case of his
being compelled to a hasty retreat, and formed
his troops, determined to dispute the pass with
his small arms. This he effected with complete
success, notwithstanding the vast superiority
of the assailants ; until, after a conflict of more
than an hour and a half, night came on, and
brought it to a close. But for this quick-sighted
interposition, Sullivan's detachment must have
been nearly annihilated.

On this occasion only did the slightest mis-
understanding ever occur between General
Greene and the commander-in-chief. In his
general orders after the battle, the latter ne-
glected to bestow any special applause on

^4> HEROES OF THE KEVOLUTION.

Weedon's brigade. Against this General Greene
remonstrated in person.

General Washington replied, " You, sir, are
considered my favourite officer. Weedon's
brigade, like myself, are Virginians. Should 1
applaud them for their achievement under your
command, I shall be charged with partiality :
jealousy will be excited, and the service
injured."

" Sir," exclaimed Greene, with considerable
emotion, " I trust your excellency will do me
the justice to believe that I am not selfish. In
my own behalf I have nothing to ask. Act
towards me as you please • I shall not complain.
However richly I prize your excellency's good
opinion and applause, a consciousness that I
have endeavoured to do my duty constitutes, at
present, my richest reward. But do not, sir,
let me entreat you, on account of the jealousy
that may arise in little minds, withhold justice
from the brave fellows I had the honour to
command."

Convinced that prudence forbade the special
notice requested, the commander-in-chief per-
sisted in his silence. Greene, on cool reflection,
appreciated the motive of his general, and lost
TiO time in apologizing for his intemperate

NATHANIEL GREENEi 35

manner, if not for his expressions. Delighted
with his frankness and magnanimity, Wash-
ington replied with a smile, "An officer, tried
as you have been, who errs but once in two
years, deserves to be forgiven." With that he
offered him his hand, and the matter terminated.

Following General Greene in his military
career, he next presents himself on the plains
of Germantown. In this daring assault he
commanded the left wing of the American
army, and his utmost endeavours were used to
retrieve the fortune of the day, in which his
conduct met the approbation of the commander-
in-chief. Lord Cornwallis, to whom he was
often opposed, had the magnanimity to bestow
upon him a lofty encomium. " Greene," said
he, "is as dangerous as Washington. He is
vigilant, enterprising, and full of resources.
With but little hope of gaining any advantage
over him, I never feel secure when encamped
in his neighbourhood."

At this period the quartermaster department
m the American army was in a very defective
and alarming condition, and required a speedy
and radical reform : and General Washington
declared, that such reform could be effected
only by the appointment of a quartermaster^

36 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION-.

general, of great resources, well versed in
business, and possessing practical talents of the
first order. When requested by Congress to
look out for such an officer, he at once fixed
his eye on General Greene,

Washington Vv^ell knew that the soul of
Greene was indissolubly wedded to the duties
of his line. Notwithstanding this, he expressed,
in conversation with a member of Congress,
his entire persuasion, that if General Greene
could be convinced of his ability to render his
country greater services in the quartermaster
department than in the field, he would at once
accept the appointment. " There is not," said
he, '^an officer of the army, nor a man in
America, more sincerely attached to the inter-*
ests of his country. Could he best promote
their interests in the character of a corporaly
he would exchange, as I firmly believe, without
a murmur, the epaulet for the knot. For
although he is not without ambition, that ambi-
tion has not for its object the highest rank so
much as the greatest good.^'

When the appointment was first offered to
General Greene, he declined it; but after a
conference with the commander-in-chief, he
consented to an acceptance, on condition that

Nathaniel gree?^e. 37

he should forfeit nothing of his right to com-
mand in time of action. On these terms he
received the appointment, March 22, 1778, and
entered immediately on the duties of the office.

In this station he fully answered the ex-
pectations formed of his abilities ; and enabled
the American army to move with additional
celerity and vigour.

During his administration of the quarter-
master department, he took, on two occasions^
a high and distinguished part in the field ; the
first in the battle of Monmouth 5 the second,
in a very brilliant expedition against the enemy
in Rhode Island, under the command of General
Sullivan. At the battle of Monmouth, the
com.mander-in-chief, disgusted with the be-
haviour of General Lee, deposed him in the
field of battle, and appointed General Greene
to command the right wing, where he greatly
contributed to retrieve the errors of his pre-
decessor, and to the subsequent events of the
day.

His return to his native state was hailed by
the inhabitants with general and lively demon=
strations of joy. Even the leading members
of the society of Friends, who had reluctantly
excluded him from their communion, often
4.

38 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

visited him at his quarters, and expressed their
sincere satisfaction at the elevation he had at*
tained in the confidence of his country. One
of these plain gentlemen being asked in jest,
by a young officer, how he, as an advocate of
peace, could reconcile it to his conscience to
keep so much company with General Greene,
whose profession was war 1 prompt^ replied,
" Friend, it is not a suit of uniform that can
either make or spoil a man. True, I do not
approve of this many-coloured apparel, (to the
officer's dress,) but whatever may be the form
or colour of his coat, Nathaniel Greene still
retains the same sound head and virtuous heart
that gained him the love and esteem of our
Society."

During the year 1779, General Greene was
occupied exclusively in the extensive concerns
of the quarterm.aster department.

About this time General Greene was called
to the performance of a duty the most trying
and painful he had ever encountered. We
allude to the melancholy affair of Major Andre,
adjutant'general to the British army, who was
captured in disguise within the ilmerican lines.
Washington detailed a court for this trial,
composed of fourteen general officers, La

NATHANIEL GREENE. 39

Fayette and Steuben being two of the number,
and appointed General Greene to preside.

When summoned to his trial, Andre frankly
disclosed, without interrogatory, what bore
heaviest on his own life, but inviolably con-
cealed whatever might endanger the safety of
others. His confessions were conclusive, and
no witness was examined against him. The
court were unanimous that he had been taken
as a spy, and must suffer death. Of this sen-
tence he did not complain, but wished that he
might be permitted to close a life of honour by
a professional death, and not be compelled, like
a common felon, to expire on a gibbet. To
effect this, he made, in a letter to General
Washington, one of the most powerful and
pathetic appeals that ever fell from the pen of
a mortal.

Staggered in his resolution, the commander-
in-chief referred the subject, accompanied by
the letter, to his general officers, who, with
one exception, became unanimous in their de-
sire that Andre should be shot.

That exception was found in General Greene,
the president of the court. " Andre," said he,
" is either a spy or an innocent man. If the
latter, to execute him in any way will be

*0 HEKOES OF THE REVOLUTION.

murder : if the former, the mode of his ueath
is prescribed by law, and you have no right to
alter it. Nor is this all. At the present
alarming crisis of our affairs, the public safety
calls for a solemn and impressive example.
Nothing can satisfy it short of the execution
of the prisoner as a common spy ; a character
of which his own confession has clearly con-
victed him. Beware how you suffer your
feelings to triumph over your judgment. In-
dulgence to one miay be death to thousands.
Besides, if you shoot the prisoner, instead of
hanging him, you will excite suspicion which
you will be unable to allay. Notwithstantling
all your efforts to the contrary, 5^ou will awaken
public compassion, and the belief will become
general, that, in the case of Major Andre, there
were exculpatory circumstances, entitling him
to lenity, beyond what he received^ — perhaps
entitling him to pardon. Hang him, therefore,
or set him free."

This reasoning being considered conclusive,
the prisoner suffered as a common spy.

We have now advanced to that period of the
revolutionary war in which the situation of
Greene is about to experience an entire change
No longer acting in the vicinity, or subject to

NATHANIEL GREENE. 41

the immediate orders of a superior, we are to
behold him, in future, removed to a distance,
and virtually invested with the supreme com-
mand of a large section of the United States.

Congress, dissatisfied with the loss of the
southern army, resolved that the conduct of
General Gates be submitted to the examination
of a court of inquiry, and the commander-in-
chief directed to appoint an officer to succeed
him. In compliance with the latter part of
the resolution. General Washington, without
hesitation,' offered the appointment to General
Greene. In a letter to Congress, recommend-
ing the general to the support of that body, he
made the most honourable mention of him as
" an officer in whose abilities, fortitude, and in-
tegrity, from a long and intimate experience
of them, he had the most entire confidence."
Writing to Mr. Matthews, a member from
Charleston, he says, " You have your wish, in
the officer appointed to the southern command.
I think I am giving you a general ; but what
can a general do without arms, without clothing,
without stores, without provisions ?"

General Greene arrived at Charlotte, thf
head-quarters of General Gates, December 2,
1780, and in entering on the duties of his
4*

42 HEROES OF TilE REVOLUTION.

command, he found himself in a situation that
was fearfully embarrassing. His army, con-
sisting mostly of militia, amounted to less than
two thousand men, and he found on hand but
three days' provision, and a very defective
supply of ammunition. In front was an enemy,
proud in victory, and too strong to be encoun-
tered. With such means, and under such
circumstances, to recover two states, already
conquered, and protect a third, constituted a
task that was almost hopeless.

It was not merely to meet an enemy in the
field, to command skilfully and fight bravely,
either in proffered or accepted battle. These
operations depend on mere professional qualifi-
cations, that can be readily acquired by mo-
derate capacities. But to raise and provide for
an army in a dispirited and devastated country,
creating resources where they do not exist ; to
operate with an incompetent force on an ex-
tended and broken line of frontier ; to hold in
check in many points, and to avoid coming into
contact in any, with an enemy superior in
numbers and discipline : to conduct a scheme
of warfare like this — and such, precisely, was
that which tested the abilities of General
Greene — requires a genius of the highest order,

NATHANIEL GREENE. 4<3

combined with indefatigable industry and

skill.

Preparatory to the commencement of the
campaign, Greene's first care was to prepare
for his troops subsistence and ammunition, and
in effecting this, he derived great aid from his
personal experience in the business of the
commissary and quartermaster's departments.
This qualification for such a diversity of duties,
presented him to his troops in the two-fold re-
lation of their supporter and commander.
Much of the moral strength of an army con-
sists in a confidence in its leader, an attachment
to his person, and a spirit of subordination,
founded on principle. To such an extent was
this true, that even the common soldiery,
sensible of the superintendence of a superior
intellect, predicted confidently a change of
fortune. Their defeat at Camden was soon
forgotten by them in their anticipations of
future victory. They fancied themselves ready
once more to take the field, and felt a solicitude
to regain their lost reputation, and signalize
their prowess in presence of their new and
beloved commander.

But, notwithstanding the spirit and confi-
dence of his troops, Greene found himself

4-4 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

unable to meet the enemy in the field. With
Washington in his eye, and his own genius to
devise his measures, he resolved on cautious
movements and protracted war. Yet to sustain
the spirit of the country, it was necessary that
he should not altogether shun his enemy ; but
watching and confronting his scouts and fo-
raging parties, fight, cripple, and beat him in
detail 5 and in all his movements it was
necessary for him to maintain a communication
with Virginia, from which he was to receive
supplies of provisions, munitions, and men.

General Greene's first m.ovement from the
village of Charlotte, was productive of the
happiest eiFect. In the month of December
he marched with his main army to the Cheraw
Hills, about seventy miles to the right of Lord
Cornwallis, despatching, at the same time,
General Morgan, with four hundred continen-
tals under Colonel Howard, Colonel Wash-
ington's corps of dragoons, and a few militia,
amounting in all to six hundred, to take a
position on the British left, distant from them
about fifty miles.

This judicious disposition, which formed a
rallying point for the friends of independence,
both in the east and west, and facilitated the

NATHANIEL GREENE. 45

procurement of provisions for the troops, ex-
cited his lordship's apprehensions for the safety
of Ninety-Six and Augusta, British posts, which
he considered as menaced by the movements
of Morgan, and gave rise to a train of move-
ments which terminated in the celebrated
battle of the Cowpens.

Cornwallis, immediately on learning the
movements of Greene, despatched Colonel
Tarlton with a strong detachment, amounting,
in horse and foot, to near a thousand, for the
protection of Ninety-Six, with orders to bring
General Morgan, if possible, to battle. Greatly
superior in numbers, he advanced on Morgan
with a menacing aspect, and compelled him, at
first, to fall back rapidly. But this was not
long continued. Glorying in action, and re-
lying with great confidence in the spirit and
firmness of his regular troops, Morgan halted
at the Cowpens, and prepared to give his
adversary battle. The opportunity was eagerly
seized by Tarlton. An engagement was the
immediate consequence, and a complete victory
was obtained by the Americans.* Upwards
of five hundred of the British laid down their
arms and were made prisoners, and a very con-
* Vide Biography of General Morgan.

46 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

siderable number were killed. Eight hundred
stand of arms, two field-pieces, and thirty-five
baggage wagons, fell to the victors, who had
onjy twelve killed and sixty wounded.

The victory of the Cowpens, although
achieved under the immediate command of
Morgan, was the first stroke of General Greene's
policy in the south, and augured favourably of
his future career. It led to one of the most
arduous, ably conducted, and memorable ope-
rations, that occurred in the course of the
revolutionary war — the retreat of Greene, and
the pursuit of Cornwallis, during the inclemen-
cies of winter, a distance of two hundred and
thirty miles.

Galled in his pride, and crippled in his
schemes by the overthrow of Tarlton, Lord
Cornwallis resolved, by a series of prompt and
vigorous measures, to avenge the injury and
retrieve the loss which the royal arms had
sustained at the Cowpens. His meditated
operations for this purpose were, to advance
rapidly on Morgan, retake his prisoners, and
destroy his force ; to maintain an intermediate
position, and prevent his union with General
Greene or in case of the junction of the two

NATHANIEL GREENE. 47

armies, to cut off their retreat towards Virginia,
and force them to action.

Bat General Greene, no less vigilant and
provident than himself, informed, by express,
of the defeat of Tarlton, instantly perceived
the object of his lordship, and ordering his
troops to proceed under General Huger to
Salisbury, where he meditated a junction with
Morgan's detachment, he himself, escorted by
a few dragoons, set out for the head-quarters
of that officer, and joined him shortly after.

Cornwallis having committed to the flames
his heavy baggage, and reduced his army to the
condition of light troops, dashed towards Mor-
gan. And here commenced the retreat of
General Greene, in the course of which he
displayed such resources, and gained in the end
such lasting renown. Sensible of the immense
prize for which he was contending, he tasked
his genius to the uttermost. On the issue of
the struggle was staked, not merely the lives of
a few brave men, not alone the existence of
the whole army, but the fate of the south and
the integrity of the Union. But his genius
was equal to the crisis. By the most masterly
movements, Greene effected a junction of the
two divisions of his little army.

48 HEROES OP THE REVOLUTION*

To his great mortification, Lord Cornwallis
now perceived that in two of his objects, the
destruction of Morgan's detachment, and the
prevention of its union with the main division,
he was completely frustrated by the activity
of Greene. But to cut oiF the retreat of the
Americans into Virginia, after their union, and
to compel them to action, was still perhaps
practicable, and to the achievement of this he
now directed his undivided energies.

The genius of Greene, however, did not de-
sert him on this trying occasion. Self-collected,
and adapting his conduct to the nature of the
crisis, his firmness grew with the increase of
danger ; and the measure of his greatness was
the extent of the difficulties he was called to
encounter. Notwithstanding the vigilance and
activity of his enemy, he brought his men in
safety into Virginia ; and to crown the whole,
no loss was sustained by him, either in men,
munitions, artillery, or any thing that enters
into the equipment of an army.

Frustrated thus in all his purposes. Lord
Cornv/allis, although the pursuing party, must
be acknowledged to have been fairly van-
quished. Victory is the successful issue of a
struggle for superiority. Military leaders con-

NATHANIEL GREENE. 49

tend for different objects; to vanquish their
enemies in open conflict ; to attack and over-
throw them by stratagem and surprise ; to ex-
haust their resources by delay of action ; or to
elude them in retreat, until, strengthened by
reinforcements, they may be able to turn and
meet them in the field. Of this last description
was the victory of Greene in this memorable
retreat.

In Virginia, General Greene received some
reinforcements, and had the promise of more ;
on which he returned again into North Carolina,
where, on their arrival, he hoped to be able to
act on the offensive. He encamped in the vi-
cinity of Lord Cornwallis's army. By a variety
of the best concerted manoeuvres, he so judi-
ciously supported the arrangement of his troops,
by the secrecy and promptitude of his motions,
that during three weeks, while the enemy re-
mained near him, he prevented them from
taking any advantage of their superiority ; and
even cut off all opportunity of their receiving
succours from the royalists.

About the beginning of March he effected a

junction with a continental regiment and two

considerable bodies of Virginia and Carolina

militia. He then determined on attacking the

5

50 IIER0E3 OF THE EEVOLLTION.

British commander without loss of time, " being
persuaded," as he declared in his subsequent
despatches, " that if-he was successful, it would
prove ruinous to the enemy ; and, if otherwise,
that it would be but a partial evil to him."
On the 14th he arrived at Guilford Court-House,
the British then lying at twelve miles distance.

His army consisted of about four thousand
five hundred men, of whom near two-thirds
were North Carolina and Virginia militia. The
British were about two thousand four hundred,
all regular troops, and the greater part inured
to toil and service in their long expedition
under Lord Cornwallis, who, on the morning
of the 15th, being apprised of General Greene's
intentions, marched to meet him. The latter
disposed his army in three lines : the militia of
North Carolina were in front ; the second line
was composed of those of Virginia ; and the
third, which was the flower of the army, was
formed of continental troops, near fifteen
hundred in number. They were flanked on
both sides by cavalry and riflemen, and posted
on a rising ground, a mile and a half from
Guilford Court-House.

"The engagement commenced at half an
hour after one o'clock, by a brisk cannonade j

NATHANIEL GREENE.

51

after which the British advanced in three
columns, and attacked the first line, composed
of North Carolina militia. Those who pro-
bably had never been in action before, were
panic-struck at the approach of the enemy ;
and many of them ran away without firing a
gun, or being fired upon, and even before the
British had come nearer than one hundred and
forty yards to them. Part of them, however,
fired ; but they then followed the example of
their comrades. Their officers made every
possible effort to rally them }, but neither the
advantages of position, nor any other considera-
tion, could induce them to maintain their
ground. This shameful conduct had a great
effect upon the issue of the battle. The next
line, however, behaved much better. They
fought with great bravery, and were thrown
into disorder ; rallied, returned to the charge,
and kept up a heavy fire for a long time ; but
were at length broken and driven on the third
line, when the engagement became genera],
very severe, and very bloody. At length,
superiority of discipline carried the day from
superiority of numbers. The conflict endured
an hour and a half, and was terminated by
General Greene's ordering a retreat, when he

52 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

perceived that the enemy were on the point of
encircling his troops."

This was a hard-fought action, and the ex-
ertions of the two rival generals, both in pre-
paring for this action, and during the course
of it, were never surpassed. Forgetful of
every thing but the fortune of the day, they,
on several occasions, mingled in the danger
like common soldiers.

The loss sustained by the Americans in this
battle, amounted, in killed and wounded, to
only about four hundred; while, in its effect
on the enemy, it was murderous ; nearly one
third of them, including many officers of dis-
tinction, were killed and wounded.

■ The result of this conflict, although techni-
cally a defeat, w^as virtually a victory on the
part of General Greene. In its relation to his
adversary, it placed him on higher ground than
he had previously occupied; enabling him,
immediately afterward, instead of retreating,
to become the pursuing party. This is evi-
denced by his conduct soon after the action.

Not doubting that Lord Cornwallis would
follow him, he retreated slowly, and in good
order, from the field of battle, until attaining,
at the distance of a few miles, an advantageous

NATHANIEL GREENE.

53

position, he again drew up his forces, deter-
mined to renew the contest on the arrival of
his enemy. But his lordship was in no con-
dition to pursue. Having, by past experience,
not to be forgotten, learnt that his adversary was
a Ulysses in wisdom, he now perceived that
he was an Ajax in strength. Alike expert in
every mode of warfare, and not to be van-
quished either by stratagem or force, he found
him too formidable to be again approached.

Influenced by these sentiments. Lord Corn-
wallis, instead of pursuing his foe, or even
maintaining his ground, commenced his retreat,
leaving behind him about seventy of his
wounded, whom he recommended, in a letter
written by himse-lf, to the humanity and
attention of the American chief.

Had General Greene been in a situation to
pursue his lordship as soon as he commenced
his retreat, the destruction of that officer and
his army would have been inevitable. Some
spot on the plains of Carolina would have
witnessed the surrender that was reserved for
Virginia; and the hero of the south would
have won the laurels which shortly afterwards
decorated the brov/ of the hero of the nation.
But Greene's military stores were so far ex-

54 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

pended that he could not pursue, until he
received a supply ; and the delay, thus occa-
sioned, gave time to the British commander to
effect his escape.

Having received his supplies, Greene im-
mediately pursued the enemy ; but the advanced
position of Lord Cornwallis, and the impracti-
cable condition of the roads, frustrated every
exertion that General Greene could make to
compel the enemy to a second engagement :
convinced of this, he halted to indulge his
troops in that refreshment and repose vi^hich
they so much needed.

Were we to indicate the period in the life
of General Greene most strongly marked by
the operations, and irradiated by the genius of
a great commander, we would, without hesita-
tion, select that which extends from the com-
mencement of his retreat before Cornwallis, to
the termination of his pursuit of him at this
time. Perhaps a brighter era does not adorn
the military career of any leader. It was in
the course of it that he turned the current of
adverse fortune consequent on the defeat of
Gates, which he afterwards directed with such
certain aim and irresistible force, as to keep the
nnemy from his numerous strong holds in the

NATHANIEL GREENE. 55

southern department, and contributed so pre-
eminently to the speedy and felicitous issue of
the war.

Having abandoned the pursuit of the British
army, the general again found himself encircled
with difficulties. Of the southern department
of the Union, over which Greene's command
extended, the enemy was in force in three
large and important sections. Georgia and
South Carolina were entirely in their posses-
sion ; Lord Cornwallis -had taken post in the
maritime district of North Carolina, and part
of Virginia was occupied by a powerful de-
tachment of British troops, under the command
of General Phillips. At a loss to determine
in which of these points he should act in per-
son, he consulted his officers, and found them
greatly divided in opinion. He however re-
solved, in accordance to the views of Colonel
Lee, that leaving his lordship, whose object
evidently was the invasion of Virginia, to be
met by the energies of that state, with such
assistance as might arrive from the north, he
should penetrate South Carolina, his army
divided into two columns, attack and beat the
enemy at their different posts, without per-
mitting them to concentrate their forces, and

5t> IJ-EROES OF THE DEVOLUTION.

thus recover that rich and important rp.ember
of the Union.

An ofHcer who had distinguished himself in
the late action, not satisfied with the proposed
plan of operations, asked General Greene, by
way of remonstrance, " What will you do, sir,
in case Lord Cornwallis throws himself in your
rear, and cuts off your communication with
Virginia ?" " I will punish his temerity," re-
plied the general with great pleasantness, " by
ordering you to charge him as you did at the
battle of Guilford. But never fear, sir ; his
lordship has too much good sense ever again to
risk his safety so far from the sea-board. He
has just escaped ruin, and he knows it, and I
am greatly mistaken in his character as an
officer, if he has not the capacity to profit by
experience."

On the 7th of April, General Greene broke
up his encampment, and with the main column
of his army moving to the south, took position
on Hobkirk's Hill, in front of Camden, the
head-quarters of Lord Rawdon, now the com-
mander-in-chief of the British forces in the
south.

The strength of the British position, which
was covered on the south and east side by a

NATHANIEL GREENE. 57

river and creek, and to the westward and
northward by six redoubts, rendered it im-
practicable to carry it by storm with the small
army Greene had, consisting of about seven
hundred continentals, the militia having gone
home. He therefore encamped at about a mile
from the town, in order to prevent supplies
from being brought in, and to take advantage
of such favourable circumstances as might
occur.

Lord Rawdon's situation was extremely-
delicate. Colonel Watson, whom he had
some time before detached for the protection
of the eastern frontiers, and to whom he had,
on the intelligence of General Greene's in-
tentions, sent orders to return to Camden, was
so eifectually watched by General Marion, that
it was impossible for him to obey. His lord-
ship's supplies were, moreover, very preca-
rious ; and should General Greene's reinforce-
ments arrive, he might be so closely invested
as to be at length obliged to surrender. In this
dilemma, the best expedient that suggested
itself, was a bold attack ; for which purpose he
armed every person with him capable of
crrrying a musket, not excepting his musicians
and drummers. He sallied out on the 25th of

58

HEROES OF THE KEVOLUTIOiSr.

April, and attacked General Greene in his
camp. The defence was obstinate ', and for
some part of the engagement the advantage
appeared to be in favour of America. Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Washington, who commanded
the cavalry, had at one time not less than two
hundred British prisoners. HoM'ever, by the
misconduct of one of the American regiments,
victory was snatched from General Greene,
who was compelled to retreat. He lost in the
action about two hundi-ed killed, wounded and
prisoners. Rawdon lost about two hundred
and fifty-eight.

There was a great similarity between the
consequences of the affair at Guilford, and
those of this action. In the former, Lord
Cornwallis was successful ; but was afterward
obliged to retreat two hundred miles from the
scene of action, and for a tim.e abandoned the
grand object of penetrating to the northward.
In the latter. Lord Rawdon had the honour of
the field, but was shortly after reduced to the
necessity of abandoning his post, and leaving
behind him a number of sick and wounded.

The evacuation of Camden, with the vigi-
lance of General Greene, and the several
officers he employed, gave a new complexion

ii

NATHANIEL GIIEENE.

59

to affairs in South Carolina, where the British
ascendency declined more rapidly than it had
been established. The numerous forts garri-
soned by the enemy, fell, one after the other,
into the hands of the Americans. Orange-
burg, Motte, Watson, Georgetown, Granby,
and others. Fort Ninety-Six excepted, were
surrendered; and a very cojisiderable number
of prisoners of war, with military stores and
artillery, were found in them.

On the 22d of May, General Greene sat down
before Ninety-Six with the main part of his
little army. The siege was carried on, for a
considerable time, with great spirit; and the
place was defended with equal bravery. At
length the works were so far reduced that a
surrender must have been made in a few days,
when a reinforcement of three regiments from
Europe arrived at Charleston, which enabled
Lord Rawdon to proceed to relieve this im-
portant post. The superiority of the enemy's
force reduced General Greene to the alternative
of abandoning the siege altogether, or, previous
to their arrival, of attempting the fort by storm.
The latter was more agreeable to his enterpri-
sing spirit; and an attack was made on the
morning of the 19th of June. He was re-

60 HEri-OES OF THE REVOLUTION.

pulsed with the loss of one hundred and fiily
men. He raised the siege, and retreated over
the Saluda.

Dr. Ramsay, speaking of the state of affairs
about this period, says, " truly distressing was
the situation of the American army ; when in
the grasp of victory, to be obliged to expose
themselves to a hazardous assault, and after-
ward to abandon a siege. When they were
nearly masters of the whole country, to be
compelled to retreat to its extremity ; and after
subduing the greatest part of the force sent
against them, to be under the necessity of
encountering still greater reinforcements, when
their remote situation precluded them from the
hope of receiving a single recruit. In this
gloomy situation there were not wanting per-
sons who advised General Greene to leave the
state, and retire with his remaining forces to
Virginia. To arguments and suggestions of
this kind he nobly replied, ' I will recover the
country, or die in the attempt.' This distin-
guished officer, whose genius was most vigorous
in those extremities when feeble minds abandon
themselves to despair, adopted the only resource
now left him, of avoiding an engagement until
the British force should be divided."

NATHANIEL GREENE. 61

Greene having, without loss, made good his
passage over the rivers in front. Lord Rawdon,
perceiving the futility of any further attempt
to overtake him, abandoned the pursuit, and
retreating to Ninety-Six, prepared for its
evacuation. Thus did the policy of Greene,
whit:h is moral strength, compel the surrender
of that fortress, although, from a vi^ant of
physical strength^ he failed to carry it by the
svi^ord.

No sooner had Lord Rawdon commenced his
retrograde movement towards Ninety-Six, than
General Greene changed his front and moved
in the same direction. On the breaking up of
the garrison of Ninety-Six, and the return of
Lord Rawdon towards Charleston, which im-
mediately ensued, the British army moved in
two columns, at a considerable distance from
each other. It was then that General Greene
became, in reality, the pursuing party, ex-
ceedingly anxious to bring the enemy to battle.
But this he was unable to accomplish until
September.

September the 9th, General Greene having
assembled about two thousand men, proceeded
to attack the British, who, under the command
of Colonel Stewart were posted at the Eutaw

62 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

Springs. The American force was drawn up
in two lines; the first, composed of Carolina
militia, was commanded by Generals Marion
and Pickens, and Colonel de Malmedy. The
second, which consisted of continental troops
from North Carolina, Virginia, and Maryland,
was commanded by General Sumpter, Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Campbell, and Colonel Wil-
liams : Lieutenant-Colonel Lee, with his legion,
covered the right flank ; and Lieutenant-Colonel
Henderson, with the state troops, covered the
left. A corps de reserve was formed of the
cavalry under Lieutenant-Colonel Washington,
and the Delaware troops under Captain Kirk-
wood. As the Americans came forward to the
attack, they fell in with some advanced parties
of the enemy, at about two or three miles
ahead of the main Body. These being closely
pursued, were driven back, and the action soon
became general. The militia were at length
forced to give way, but were bravely supported
by the second line. Li the hottest part of the
engagement. General Greene ordered the Mary-
land and Virginia continentals to charge with
trailed arms. This decided the fate of the day.
" Nothing," says Dr. Ramsay, '' could surpass
the intrepidit)^ of both officers and men on this

NATHANIEL GREENE.

occasion. They rushed on in good order,
through a heavy cannonade and a shower of
musketry, with such unshaken resolution that
they bore down all before them." The British
were broken, closely pursued, and upwards of
five hundred of them were taken prisoners.
They, however, made a fresh stand in a favour-
able position, in impenetrable shrubs and a
picketed garden. Lieutenant-Colonel Wash-
ington, after having made every effort to dis-
lodge them, was wounded and taken prisoner.
Four six-pounders were brought forward to
play upon them, but they fell into their hands ;
and the endeavours to drive them from their
station being found impracticable, the Ameri-
cans retired, leaving a very strong picket on
the field of battle. Their loss was about five
hundred ; that of the British upwards of eleven
hundred.

General Greene was honoured by Congress
with a British standard and a gold medal, em-
blematical of the engagement, ^'^ for his wise,
decisive, and magnanimous conduct in the
action at Eutaw Springs, in which, with a force
inferior in number to that of the enemy, he
obtained a most signal victory."

In the evening of the succeeding day,

6i HEROES or THE REVOLUTION.

Colonel Stewart abandoned his post, and re-
treated towards Charleston, leaving behind
upwards of seventy of his wounded, and a
thousand stand of arms. He was pursued a
considerable distance, but in vain.

In Dr. Caldwell's Memoirs of the Life of
General Greene, we have the following inter-
esting story as connected with the severe con-
flict at Eutaw Springs.

" Two young officers, bearing the same rank,
met in personal combat. The American per-
ceiving that the Briton had a decided superiority
in the use of the sabre, and being himself of
great activity and personal strength, almost
gigantic, closed with his adversary, and made
him his prisoner.

"Gentlemanly, generous, and high-minded,
this event, added to a personal resemblance
which they were observed to bear to each other,
produced between these two youthful warriors
an intimacy, which increased, in a short time,
to a mutual attachment.

" Not long after the action, the American
officer returning home on furlough, to settle
some private business, obtained permission for
his friend to accompany him.

'' Travelling without attendants or guard,

NATHANIEL GREENE. 65

they were both armed and well mounted. Part
of their route lay through a settlement highly
disaffected to the American cause.

" When in the midst of this, having, in
consequence of a shower of rain, thrown
around them their cloaks, which concealed
their uniforms, they were suddenly encountered
by a detachment of tories.

" The young American determined to die
rather than become a prisoner, especially to
men whom he held in abhorrence for disloyalty
to their country, and the generous Briton re-
solved not to survive one by whom he had been
distinguished and treated so kindly : they both
together, with great spirit and self-possession,
charged the royalists, having first made signals
in their rear, as if directing others to follow
them ; and thus, without injury on either side,
had the address and good fortune to put the
party to flight.

" Arriving in safety at their place of desti-
nation, what was their surprise and augmented
satisfaction on finding, from some questions
proposed by the American officer's father, that
they were first cousins !

" With increasing delight, the young Briton
passed several weeks in the family of his kins-
6*

66 HEROES OP THE EEVOLUTlOiSr.

man, where the writer of this narrative saw
him daily, and often listened, with the rapture
of a child, to the checkered story of his
military adventures.

" To heighten the occurrence, and render it
more romantic, the American officer had a
sister, beautiful and accom.plished, whose heart
soon felt for the gallant stranger more than the
affection due to a cousin. The attachment was
mutual.

" But here the adventure assumed a tragical
cast. The youthful foreigner being exchanged,
was summoned to return to his regiment. The
message was fatal to his peace, but military
honour demanded the sacrifice, and the lady,
generous and high-minded as himself, would
not be instrumental in dimming his laurels.
The parting scene was a high-wrought picture
of tenderness and sorrow. On taking leave
the parties mutually bound themselves, by a
solemn promise, to remain single a certain
number of years, in the hope that an arrange-
ment contemplated might again bring them
together. A few weeks afterward, the lady
expired under an attack of the small-pox.
The fate of the officer we never learnt."

Judge Johnson in his Life of General Greene,

NATHANIEL GREENE. 67

cays, "At the battle of Eutaw Springs, Greene
says, ' that hundreds of my men were naked
as they were born.' Posterity will scarcely
believe that the bare loins of many brave men
who carried death into the enemy's ranks at
the Eutaw, were galled by their cartouch-
boxes, while a folded rag or a tuft of moss
protected their shoulders from sustaining the
same injury from the musket. Men of other
times will inquire, by what magic was the army
kept together? By what supernatural power
was it made to fight ?"

General Greene, in Ijis letters to the secretary
at war, says, "We have three hundred men
without arms, and more than one thousand so
naked that they can be put on duty only in
cases of a desperate nature." Again he says,
''Our difficulties are so numerous, and our
wants so pressing, that I have not a moment's
relief from the most painful anxieties. I have
more embarrassments than it is proper to dis-
close to the world. Let it suffice to say that
this part of the United States has had a narrow
escape. / have been seven months in the field
without taking off my clothes.''^

The battle of Eutaw Springs being termina-
ted, General Greene ordered the light troops

68

HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

under Lee and Marion to march circuitously,
and gain a position in the British rear. But
the British leader was so prompt in his measures,
and so precipitate in his movements, that,
leaving his sick and wounded behind him, he
made good his retreat. The only injury he
received in his flight was from Lee and Marion,
who cut off part of his rear-guard, galled hira
in his flanks, killed several, and made a number
of prisoners.

Such was the issue of the battle of Eutaw.
Like that of every other fought by General
Greene, it manifested in him judgment and
sagacity of the highest order. Although he
was repeatedly forced from the field, it may be
truly said of that officer, that he never lost an
action — the consequences, at least, being always
in his favour. In no instance did he fail to
reduce his enemy to a condition relatively
much worse than that in which he met him,
his own condition, of course, being relatively
improved.

The battle of the Eutaw Springs was the last
essay in arms, in which it was the fortune of
General Greene to command, and was succeeded
by the abandonment of the whole of South
Carolina by the enemy, except Charleston,

NATHAMEL GREENE. 69

During the relaxation that followed, a danger-
ous plot was formed by some mutinous persons
of the army, to deliver up their brave general
to the British. The plot was discovered and
defeated: the ringleader apprehended, tried,
and shot, and twelve of the most guilty of his
associates deserted to the enemy. To the
honour of the American character, no native
of the country was known to be concerned in
this conspiracy. Foreigners alone were its
projectors and abetters.

The surrender of Lord Cornwallis, whose
enterprising spirit had been, by the British
ministr}^, expected to repair the losses, and
wipe away the disgrace which had been in-
curred through the inactivity and indolence of
other generals, having convinced them of the
impracticability of subjugating America, they
discontinued offensive operations in every
quarter. The happy period at length arrived,
when, by the virtue and bravery of her sons,
aided by the bounty of heaven, America
compelled her invaders to acknowledge her
independence. Then her armies quitted the
tented field, and retired to cultivate the arts of
peace and happiness. General Greene ira-

^U flEK-OES OF TilE REVOLUTxON.

mediately withdrew from the south, and re-
turned to the bosom of his native state.

The reception he there experienced was
cordial and joyous. The authorities welcomed
him home with congratulatory addresses, and
the chief men of the place v/aited upon him
at his dwelling, eager to testify their gratitude
for his services, their admiration of his talents
and virtues, and the pride with which they
recognized him as a native of Rhode Island.

On the close of the war, the three southern
states that had been the most essentially bene-
fitted by his wisdom and valour, manifested at
once their sense of justice, and their gratitude
to General Greene, by liberal donations. South
Carolina presented him with an estate valued
at ten thousand pounds sterling ; Georgia with
an estate, a few miles from the city of
Savannah, worth five thousand pounds ; and
North Carolina, with twenty-five thousand
acres of land in the state of Tennessee.

Having spent about two 3' ears in his native
state, in the adjustment of his private affairs,
he sailed for Georgia in October, 1785, and
settled with his family on his estate neai
Savannah. Engaging here in agricultural pur-
suits, he employed himself closely in arrange-

NATHANIEL GREENE. 71

meuts for planting, exhibiting the fairest pro-
mise to become as eminent in the practice of
the peaceful virtues as he had already shown
himself in the occupation of war.

But it was the will of heaven that in this
new sphere of action his course should be
limited. The short period of seven months
was destined to witness its commencement and
its closei,

Walking over his grounds, as was his custom,
without his hat, on the afternoon of the 15th
of June, 1786, the day being intensely hot, he
was suddenly attacked with such a vertigo and
prostration of strength, as to be unable to re-
turn to his house without assistance. The
affection was what was denominated a " stroke
of the sun." It was succeeded by fever,
accompanied v/ith stupor, delirium, and a dis-=
ordered stomach. All efforts to subdue it
proving fruitless, it terminated fatally on the
19th of the month.

Intelligence of the event being conveyed to
Savannah, but one feeling pervaded the place.
Sorrow was universal; and the whole town
instinctively assumed the aspect of mourning.
All business was suspended, the dwelling houses,

72 HEROES OF THE liEVOLL'TlON.

stores, and shops, were closed, and the shipping
in the harbour half-masted their colours.

On the following da}^, the body of the de-
ceased being conveyed to the town, at the re-
quest of the inhabitants, was interred in a
private cemetr}^ with military honours; the
magistrates of the place, and other public
officers, the society of the Cincinnati, and the
citizens generally, joined in the procession.*

In estimating the military character of Gen-
eral Greene, facts authorized the inference that
he possessed a genius adapted by nature to
military command. After resorting to arms,
his attainment to rank was much more rapid
than that of any other officer oiu* country has
produced 3 perhaps the mjost rapid that history
records. These offices, so high in responsibility
and honour, were conferred on him, not as
matters of personal favour or family iiiiluence,
nor yet through the instrumentality of political
intrigue. They were rewards of pre-eminent
merit, and tokens of recognised fitness for the
highest functions of military service.

It is said, that on his v^ry first appearance .
m the camp at Cambridge, from the ardour of

" General Greene left behind him a wife and five children.

NATiEiANIEL GREENE. 73

his zeal, unremitted activity, and strict attention
to every duty, he was pronounced by soldiers
of distinction,* a man of real military genius.

*'His knowledge," said General Knox to a
distinguished citizen of South Carolina, "is
intuitive. He came to us the rawest and most
untutored being I ever met with ;. but in less
than twelve months he was equal in military
knowledge to any general officer in the army,
and very superior to most of them." Even the
enemy he conquered did homage to his pre-
eminent talents for war. Tarlton, who had
strong ground to know him, is reported to
have pronounced him, on a public occasion,
the most able and accomplished commander
that America had produced.

When acting under the order of others, he
never failed to discharge, to their satisfaction,
the duties intrusted to him, however arduous.
But it is the southern department of the Union
that constitutes the theatre of his achievements
and fame. It was there, where his views were
unshackled and his genius free, that, by per-
forming the part of a great captain, he erected
for himself a monument of reputation, durable
* Colonel Pickeritiff and othervS,

74 HEROES OF TIIE KEVOLUTIOJN'.

as history, lofty as victory and conquest conld
render it, and brightened by all that glory could
bestow.

In compliment to his brilliant successes, the
hivalric De la Luzerne, the minister of France,
who, as a knight of Malta, must be considered
as a competent judge of militar}^ merit, thus
speaks of him : " Other generals subdue their
enemies by the means with which their country
or their sovereign furnished them, but Greene
appears to subdue his enemy by his own means.
He commenced his campaign without either an
army, provisions, or military stores. He has
asked for nothing since, and yet scarcely a post
arrives from the south that does not bring
intelligence of some new advantage gained
over his foe. He conquers by magic. History
furnish-es no parallel to this."

On the 12th of iVugust, of the year m
which the general died, the Congress of the
United States unanimously resolved, " That a
monument be erected to the memory of the
Honourable Nathaniel Greene, at the seat of
the federal government, with the following
inscription :

KATIIANIEL GJIEENE. 7D

SACKED

to the Memory of the
HON. NATHANIEL GHEENE,

who departed this Life

the 19th of June, MDCCLXXXVI,

late Major-General in the

Service of fhe U. S. and

Commander of the Army in the

Southern Department.

The United States, in Congress

assembled, in honour of

HIS PATRIOTISM, VALOUP., AND ABILITY,

have erected this

MONUMENT.

To the disgrace of the nation, no monument
has been erected ; nor, for the want of a head-
stone, can any one at present designate the spot
where the relics of the Hero of the South lie
interred.

DANIEL MORGAN,

Brigadier-GeneraI: in the American Arkt.

GE^^:RAL Morgan was the creator of his own
fortune. Born of poor, though honest parents,
he enjoyed none of the advantages which result
from wealth and early education. But his
was a spirit that would not tamel}^ yield to
difficulties.

" He was born in New Jersey, where, from
his poverty and low condition, he had been a
day-labourer. To early education and breeding,
therefore, he owed nothing. But for this de-
ficiency his native sagacity and sound judgment,
and his intercourse with the best society, made
much amends in after life.

"Enterprising in his disposition, even now
he removed to Virginia, in 1755, with a hope
and expectation of improving his fortune.
Here he continued, at first, his original business
of day-labour ;. but exchanged it afterward for
the employment of a wagoner.

"His military novitiate he served in the
campaign under the unfortunate Braddock.
The rank he bore is not precisely known. It
76

DANIEL MORGAN. 77

iiiust, however, have been humble ; for, in
consequence of imputed contumely towards a
British officer, he was brought to the halbert,
and received the inhuman punishment of five
hundred lashes ; or, according to his own state-
ment, of four hundred and ninety-nine ; for he
always asserted that the drummer charged with
the execution of the sentence, misccfunted and
jocularly added, ' That George the Third was
still indebted to him one lash.' To the honour
of Morgan he never practically remembered
this savage treatment during the revolutionary
war. Towards the British officers whom the
fortune of battle placed within his power, his
conduct was humane, mild, and gentlemanly.

'' After his return from this campaign, so
inordinately was he addicted to quarrels and
boxing matches, that the village of Berrystown,
in the county of Frederick, which constituted
the chief theatre of his pugilistic exploits, re-
ceived, from this circumstance, the name of
Battletown.

" In these combats, although frequently over-
matched in personal strength, he manifested
the same unyielding spirit which characterized
him afterward in his military career. When
worsted by his antagonist, he would pause for

78 HEROES OF THE RE\^OLUTION.

a time, to recruit his strength, and then return
to the contest, again and again, until he rarely
failed to prove victorious.

"Equally marked was his invincibility of
spirit in maturer age, when raised, by fortune
and his own merit, to a higher and more
honourable field of action. Defeat in battle
he rarely experienced 5 but M'hen he did, his
retreat was sullen, stern, and dangerous.

"The commencement of the American re-
volution found Mr. Morgan married and culti-
vating a farm, which, by industry and economy,
he had been enabled to purchase, in the county
of Frederick.

"Placed at the head of a rifle company,
raised in his neighbourhood in 1775, he marched
immediately to the American head-quarters in
Cambridge, near Boston.

"By order of the commander-in-chief, he
soon afterward joined in the expedition against
Quebec, and was made prisoner in the attempt
on that fortress, where Arnold was wounded,
and Montgomery fell.

"Durino- the assault, his darins; valour and
persevering gallantry attracted the notice and
admiration of the enemy.

"The assailing column to which he belonged

DANIEL MORGAN.

79

was led by Major Arnold. When that officer
was wounded, and carried from the ground,
Morgan threw himself into the lead, and,
rushing forward, passed the first and second
barriers. For a moment, victory appeared
certain. But the fall of Montgomery closing
the prospect, the assailants were repulsed, and
the enterprise abandoned. During his captivity,
Captain Morgan was treated with great kind-
ness, and not a little distinction. He was re-
peatedly visited in confinement by a British
officer of rank, who at length made an attempt
on his patriotism and virtue, by offering him
the commission and emoluments of colonel in
the British army, on condition that he would
desert the American and join the royal standard.

" Morgan rejected the proposal with scorn,
and requested the courtly and corrupt negoti-
ator * never again to insult him in his misfor-
tunes by an offer which plainly implied that he
thought him a villian.' The officer withdrew,
and did not again recur to the subject.

«« On being exchanged, Morgan immediately
rejoined the American army, and received, by
the recommendation of General Washington,
the command of a regiment.

"In the year 1777, he was placed at the

80 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

head of a select rifle corps, with which, in
various instances, he acted on the enemy with
terrible eftect. His troops were considered the
most dangerous in the American service. To
confront them in the field was almost certain
death to the British officers,

"On the occasion of the capture of Bur-
goyne, the exertions and services of Colonel
Morgan and his riflemen were beyond all praise.
Much of the glory of the achievement be-
longed to them. Yet so gross was the injustice
of General Gates, that he did not even mention
them in his official despatches. His reason for
this was secret and dishonourable. Shortly
after the surrender of Burgoyne, General Gates
took occasion to hold with Morgan a private
conversation. In the course of this he told
him confidentially, that the main army was
exceedingly dissatisfied with the conduct of
General Washington ; that the reputation of
the commander-in-chief was rapidly declining;
and that several officers of great worth threat-
ened to resign, unless a change were produced
in that department.

"Colonel Morgan fathoming in an instant
the views of his commanding officer, sternly,
and with honest indignation, replied, * Sir, I

DANIEL MORGAN. 81

have one favour to ask. Never again mention
to me this hateful subject ; under no other man
but General Washington, as commander-in-
chief, will I ever serve.'

" From that moment ceased the intimacy
that had previously subsisted between him and
General Gates.

"A few days afterward the general gave a
dinner to the principal officers of the British,
and some of those of the American army.
Morgan was not invited. In the course of the
evening, that officer found it necessary to call
on General Gates, on official business. Being
introduced into the dining-room, he spoke to
the general, received his orders, and immedi-
ately withdrew, his name unannounced. Per-
ceiving, from his dress, that he was of high
rank, the British officers inquired his name.
Being told that it was Colonel Morgan, com-
manding the rifle corps, they rose from the
table, followed him into the yard, and in
troduced themselves to him, with many con\.
plimentary and flattering expressions, declaring
mat, on the day of action, they had very se-
verely felt him in the field.

" In 1780, having obtained leave of absence
from the army on account of the shattered

82 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

condition of his health, he retired to his estate
in the count}^ of Frederick, and remained
there until the appointment of General Gates
to the command of the southern krmy.

" Being waited on by the latter, and re-
quested to accompany him, he reminded him,
in expressions marked b}^ resentment, of the
unworthy treatment he had formerly experi-
enced from him, in return for the important
services which, he did not hesitate to assert, he
had rendered him in his operations against the
army of General Burgoyne.

" Having received no acknowledgement, nor
even civility, for aiding to decorate him with
laurels in the north, he frankly declared that
there were no considerations, except of a
public nature, that could induce him to co-
operate in his campaigns to the south. ' Mo-
tives of public good might influence him ;. be-
cause his country had a claim on him, in anj'-
quarter where he could promote her interest ;
but personal attachment must not be expected
to exist where he had experienced nothing but
neglect and ilijustice.'

" The two officers parted, mutually dissatis-
fied : the one, on account of past treatment ;
the other, of the recent interview.

/s-S:

DANIEL MORGAN. 83

" In the course of a few weeks afterward.

Congress having promoted Colonel Morgan to
the rank of brigadier-general by brevet, with
a view to avail themselves of his services in
the south, he proceeded without delay to join
the army of General Gates. But he was pre-
vented from serving any length of time under
that officer, by his defeat near Camden, before
I his arrival, and his being soon afterward super^

seded in command by General Greene.

" Soon after taking command of the southern
army, General Greene despatched General
Morgan with four hundred continentals under
Colonel Howard, Colonel Washington's corps
of dragoons, and a few militia, amounting in
all to about six hundred, to take position on
the left of the British army, then lying at
Winnsborough, under Lord Cornwallis, while
he took post about seventy miles to his right*
This judicious disposition excited his lordship's
apprehensions for the safety of Ninety-Six and
Augusta, British posts, which he considered as
menaced by the movements of Morgan*

" Colonel Tarleton, with a strong detachment,
amounting, in horse and foot, to near a thousand
men, was immediately despatched by Corn-
wallis to the protection of Ninety-Six, with

84 HEROES OF THE llEVOLUTIONi

orders to bring General Morgan, if possible, to
battle. To the ardent temper and chivalrous
disposition of the British colonel this direction
was perfectly congenial. Greatly superior in
numbers, he advanced on Morgan with a mena-
cing aspect, and compelled him, at first, to fall
back rapidly. But the retreat of the American
commander was not long continued*. Irritated
My pursuit, reinforced by a body of militia, and
reposing great confidence in the spirit and
firmness of his regular troops, he halted at the
Cowpens, and determined to gratify his ad-
versary in his eagerness for combat. This was
on the night of the 16th of January, 1781.
Early in the morning of the succeeding day
Tarleton, being apprised of the situation of
Morgan, pressed towards him with a redoubled
rapidity, lest, by renewing his retreat, he should
again elude him.

" But Morgan now had other thoughts than
those of flight. Already had he, for severa]
days, been at war with himself in relation to
his conduct. Glorying in action, his spirit re-
coiled from the humiiation of retreat, and his
resentment was roused by the insolence of
pursuit. This mental conflict becoming more
intolerable to him than di-^aster or death, his

DANIEL MOHGAN.

85

courage triumphed, perhaps, over his prudence,
and he resolved on putting every thing to the
hazard of the sword.

"By miUtary men who have studied the
subject, his disposition for battle is said to have
been masterly. Two light parties of militia
were advanced in front, with order to feel the
enemy as they approached ; and preserving a
desultory, well aimed fire, as they fell back to
the front line, to range with it, and renew the
conflict. The main body of the militia com-
posed this line, with General Pickens at its
head. At a suitable distance in the rear of the
first line, a second was stationed, composed of
the continental infantry and two companies of
Virginia militia, commanded by Colonel How-
ard. Washington's cavalry, reinforced with a
company of mounted militia, armed with
sabres, was held in reserve.

"Posting himself then in the line of the
regulars, he waited in silence the advance of
the enemy.

• " Tarleton coming in sight, hastily formed
his disposition for battle, and commenced the
assault. Of this conflict, the following picture
is from the pen of General Lee :

* The American light parties quickly yielded,

86 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

fell back, and arrayed with Pickens. The
enemy shouting, rushed forward upon the front
line, which retained its station, and poured in a
close fire ; but continuing to advance with the
bayonet on our militia, they retired, and gained
with haste the second line. Here, with part
of the corps, Pickens took post on Howard's
right, and the rest fled to their horses, probably
with orders to remove them to a further
distance. Tarleton pushed forward, and was
received by his adversary with unshaken firm-
ness. The contest became obstinate ; and each
party, animated by the example of its leader,
nobly contended for victory. Our line main-
tained itself so firmly as to oblige the enemy
to order up his reserve. The advance of
M' Arthur reanimated the British line, which
again moved forward, and outstretching our
front, endangered Colonel Howard's right.
This officer instantly took measures to defend
his flank, by directing his right company to
change its front ; but, mistaking this order, the
company fell back ; upon which the line be-
gan to retire, and General Morgan directed it
to retreat to the cavalry. This manoeuvre
being performed with precision, our flank be-
came relieved, and the new position was

DANIEL MOE.GAJN.

87

assumed with promptitude. Considering this
retrograde movement the precursor of flight,
the British line rushed on with impetuosity and
disorder; but as it drew near, Howard faced
about, and gave it a close and murderous fire.
Stunned by this unexpected shock, the most
advanced of the enemy recoiled in confusion.
Howard seized the happy moment, and followed
his advantage with the bayonet. This decisive
step gave us the day. The reserve having been
brought near the line, shared in the destruction
of our fire, and presented no rallying point to
the fugitives. A part of the enemy's cavalry
having gained our rear, fell on that portion of
the militia who had retired to their horses.
Washington struck at them with his dragoons,
and drove them before him. Thus, by a si-
multaneous effort, the infantry and cavalry of
the enemy were routed. Morgan pressed home
his success, and the pursuit became vigorous
and general.'

" In this decisive battle we lost about seventy
men, of whom twelve only were killed. The
British infantr};^, with the exception of the
baggage guard, were nearly all killed or taken.
One hundred, including ten officers, were killed;
twenty-three officers and five hundred privates

88

HEROES OF THE liEVOLUTIOI^.

were vakeii. The artillery, eight hundred
muskets, two standards, thirty-five baggage
wagons, and one hundred dragoon horses, fell
into our possession."

In this battle, so glorious to the American
arms, Tarleton had every advantage in point of
ground, cavalry, and numbers, aided by two
pieces of artillery.

Soon after this brilliant exploit, frequent
attacks of the rheumatism compelled General
Morgan to retire from the army, and he re-
turned to his seat in Frederick, Virginia, where
he continued in retirement until the insurrec-
tion in the western part of Pennsylvania, in
1794, when he was detached by the executive
of Virginia, at the head of the militia quota
of that state, to suppress it. This done, he re-
turned into the bosom of his family, where he
remained until death closed his earthly career,
in 1799.

" There existed in the character of General
Morgan a singular contradiction, which is
worthy of notice.

" Although in battle no man was ever more
prodigal of the exposure of his person to
danger, or manifested a more deliberate disre-
gard of death ; jet, so strong was his love of

DANIEL MORGAN. 89

life at other times, that he has been frequently
heard to declare, "^ he would agree to pass half
his time as a galley-slave, rather than quit this
world for another.'

" The following outline of his person and
character is from the pen of a mil tary friend,
who knew him intimately :

* Brigadier-General Morgan was stout and
active, six feet in height, strong, not too much
encumbered with flesh, and was exactly fitted
for the toils and pomp of war. His mind was
discriminating and solid, but not comprehensive
and combining. His manners plain and dec-
orous, neither insinuating nor repulsive. His
conversation grave, sententious, and considerate,
unadorned, and uncaptivating. He reflected
deeply, spoke little, and executed, with keen
perseverance, whatever he undertook.

'^ A considerable time before his death, when
the pressure of infirmity began to be heavy, he
became seriously concerned about his future
welfare. From that period, his chief solace
lay in the stud}^ of the Scriptures, and in de-
votional exercises. He died in the belief of
the truths of Christianity, and in full commu-
nion with the Presbyterian Church."

JOHN STARK,

Brigadier-General in the American Army.

General Stark w as a native of New-Hamp-
shire, and was born in Londonderry, August
17th, 1728. From his early youth he had
been accustomed to the alarm of war, having
lived in that part of the country which was
continually subject to the incursions of the
savages. While a child, he was captured by
them, and adopted as one of their own ; but
after a few years was restored.

Arrived at manhood, his manners were plain,
honest, and severe ; excellently calculated for
the benefit of society in the private walks of
life ; and as a courageous and heroic soldier,
he is entitled to a high rank among those who
have been crowned with unfading laurels, and
to whom a large share of glory is justly due.
He was captain of a company of rangers in
the provincial service during the French war,
in 1755.

From the commencement of the difficulties
with the mother country, until the closing
scene of the .evolution, our countrv found in
90

JOHN STARK. 91

General Stark one of its most resolute, inde-
pendent, and persevering defenders. The first
call of his country found him ready. When
the report of Lexington battle reached him, he
was engaged at work in his saw-mill: fired
with indignation and a martial spirit, he imme-
diately seized his musket, and with a band of
heroes proceeded to Cambridge. The morning
after his arrival, he received a colonel's com-
mission, and availing himself of his own
popularity, and the enthusiasm of the day, in
two hours he enlisted eight hundred men. On
the memorable 17th of June, at Breed's Hill,
Colonel Stark, at the head of his backwoods-
men of New-Hampshire, poured on the enemy
that deadly fire, from a sure aim, which eifected
such remarkable destruction in their ranks, and
compelled them twice to retreat. During the
whole of this dreadful conflict. Colonel Stark
evinced that consummate bravery and intrepid
zeal, which entitle his name to perpetual
remembrance.

His spirit pervaded his native state, and ex-
cited them to the most patriotic efforts. The
British General Burgoyne, in one of his letters,
observes, " That the Hampshire Grants, almost
unknown in the last war, now abound in the

92 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

most active and most rebellious race on the
continent, and hang like a gathering storm upon
my left."

Distinct from his eiforts in rallying the
energies of his native state, he obtained great
credit in the active operations of the field. At
that gloomy period of the revolution, the re-
treat of Washington through New Jersey, in
1776, when the saviour of our country, appa-
rently deserted of heaven and by his country,
with the few gallant spirits who gathered the
closer around him in that dark hour, precipi-
tately fled before an imperious and victorious
enemy — it was on this occasion that the per-
severing valour of Stark enrolled him among
the firm and resolute defenders of their country;
and, with them, entitles him to her unceasing
gratitude.

But as he fearlessly shared with Washington
the dark and gloomy night of defeat, so also
he participated with him in the joy of a bright
morning of victory and hope. In the suc-
cessful enterprise against Trenton, Stark, then
a colonel, acted a conspicuous part, and covered
himself with glory. General Wilkinson, in
his memoirs, says, " I must not withhold due
praise from the dauntless Stark, who dealt death

JOHN STARK.

93

wherever he found resistance, and broke down
all opposition before him."

Soon after this affair, Colonel Stark, from
some supposed injustice toward him on the
part of Congress, quitted the continental ser-
vice, and returned to New Hampshire.

" When he was urged by the government of
New Hampshire to take the command of their
militia, he refused, unless he should be at
liberty to serve or not, under a continental
officer, as he should judge proper. It was not
a time for debate, and it was known that the
militia would follow wherever Stark would
lead. The assembly therefore invested him
with a separate command, and gave him orders
to 'repair to Charlestown, on Connecticut
River ; there to consult with a committee of
the New Hampshire Grants respecting his
future operations, and the supply of his men
with provisions ; to take the command of the
militia, and march into the Grants ; to act in
conjunction with the troops of that new state,
or any other of the states, or of the United
States, or separatelj'-, as it should appear ex-
pedient to him, for the protection of the
people and the annoyance of the enemy.' "

Agreeably to his order?, Stark proceeded, in

94f HEROES OF THE REVOLUTICN.

a few days, to Charlestownj his men very
readily followed, and, as fast as they arrived,
he sent them forward to join the troops of
Vermont under Colonel Warner, who had
aken his situation at Manchester. At that
place he joined Warner with about eight
hundred men from New Hampshire, and found
another body of men from Vermont, who put
themselves under his command ; and he was at
the head of fourteen hundred men. Most of
them had been in the two former campaigns,
and well officered ; and were, in every respect,
a body of very good troops. Schuyler re-
peatedly urged Stark to join the troops under
his command, but he declined complying. He
was led to this conduct not only by the reasons
which have been mentioned, but by a difference
of opinion as to the best method of opposing
Burgoyne. Schuyler wished to collect all the
American troops in the front, to prevent Bur-
goyne from marching on to Albany. Stark
was of opinion that the surest v/ay to check
Burgoyne was to have a body of m.en on his
rear, ready to fall upon him in that quarter,
whenever a favourable opportunity should pre-
sent. The New England m.ilitia had not
formed a high opinion of Schuyler as

JOHN STARPi.

95

general ; and Stark meant to keep himself in a
situation in which he might embrace any-
favourable opportunity for action, either in
conjunction with him, or otherwise ; and with
that view intended to hang on the rear of the
British troops, and embrace the first opportu-
nity which should present, to m.ake an attack
upon that quarter. But Stark assured Schuyler
that he would join in any measure necessary to
promote the public good, but wished to avoid
any thing that was not consistent with his own
honour; and if it was thought necessary, he
would march to his camp. He wrote particu-
larly, that he would lay aside all private re-
sentment, when it appeared in opposition to
the public good. But in the midst of these
protestations he was watching for an opportu-
nity to discover his courage and patriotism, by
falling upon some part of Burgoyne's army.

While the American army was thus assu-
ming a more respectable appearance, General
Burgoyne was making very slow advances
towards Albany. From the 28th of July to
the 15th of August, the British army was con-
tinually employed in bringing forward batteaux,
provisions, and ammuniton, from Fort George
to the first navigable part of Hudson's River ,

96 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

a distance of not more than eighteen miles.
The labour was excessive ; the Em'opeans were
but little acquainted with the methods of per-
forming it to advantage, and the effect was in
no degree equivalent to the expense of labour
and time. With all the efforts that Burgoyne
could make, encumbered with his artillery and
baggage, his labours- were inadequate to the
purpose of supplying the army with provisions
for its daily consumption, and the establishment
of the necessary magazines. And after his
utmost exertions for fifteen days, there were
not above four day's provisions in the store,
nor above ten batteaux in Hudson's River.

In such circumstances, the British general
found that it would be impossible to procure
sufficient supplies of provisions by the way of
Fort George, and determined to replenish his
own magazines at the expense of those of the
Americans. Having received information that
a large quantity of stores were laid up at Ben-
nington, and guarded only by the militia, he
formed the design of surprising that place j and
was made to believe that as soon as a detach-
ment of the royal army should appear in that
quarter, it would receive effectual assistance
from a large body of loyalists, who only waited

John stark* 97

for the appearance of a support, and would in
that event come forward and aid the royal
cause. Full of these expectations, he detached
Colonel Baum, a German officer, with a select
body of troops, to surprise the place. His
force consisted of about five hundred regular
troops, some Canadians, and more than one
hundred Indians, with two light pieces of ar-
tillery. To facilitate their operations, and to
be ready to take advantage of the success of
the detachment, the royal army moved along
the east bank of Hudson's Eiver, and encamped
nearly opposite to Saratoga ; having, at the
same time, thrown a bridge of rafts over the
river, by which the army passed to that place.
With a view to support Baum, if it should be
found necessary, Lieutenant-Colonel Breyman's
corps, consisting of the Brunswick grenadiers,
light infantry, and chasseurs, were posted at
Battenkill.

General Stark having received information
that a party of Indians were at Cambridge, sent
Lieutenant-Colonel Greg, on August the 13th,
with a party of two hundred men, to stop their
progress. Toward night he was informed by
express that a large body of regulars was in
the rear of the Indians, and advancing toward
9

98

HEROES OF THE EEVOLUTION.

Bennington. On this intelligence, Stark drew
together his brigade, and the militia that were
at hand, and sent on to Manchester, to Colonel
Warner, to bring on his regiment ; he sent ex-
presses at the same time to the neighbouring
militia, to join him with the utmost speed.
On the morning of the 14th, he marched with
his troops, and at the distance of seven miles
he met Greg on the retreat, and the enemy
within a mile of him. Stark drew up his
troops in order of battle ; but the enemy,
coming in sight, halted upon a very advanta-
geous piece of ground. Baum perceived the
Americans were too strong to be attacked with
his present force, and sent an express to Bur^
goyne with an account of his situation, and to
have Breyman march immediately to support
him. In the meantime small parties of the
Americans kept up a skirmish with the enemy,
killed and wounded thirty of them, with two
of their Indian chiefs, without any loss to
themselves. The ground the Americans had
taken was unfavourable for a general action,
and Stark retreated about a mile, and encamped.
A council of war was held, and it was agreed
to send two detachments upon the enemy's
rear, while the rest of the troops should make

JOHN STARK. 99

an attack upon their front. The next day the
weather was rainy, and though it prevented a
general action, there were frequent skirmishes
in small parties, which proved favourable and
encourasincr to the Americans.

On August the 16th, in the morning. Stark
was joined by Colonel Symonds and a body of
militia from Berkshire, and proceeded to attack
the enemy, agreeably to the plan which had
been concerted. Colonel Baum in the meantime
had entrenched on an advantageous piece of
ground near St. Koick's mills, on a branch of
Hoosic River ; and rendered his post as strong
as his circumstances and situation would admit.
Colonel Nichols was detached with two hun-
dred men to the rear of his left, Colonel Her-
rick with three hundred men to the rear of his
right; both were to join, and then make the
attack. Colonels Hubbard and Stickney, with
two hundred men, were ordered on the right,
and one hundred were advanced towards the
front, to draw the attention of the enemy that
way. About three o'clock in the afternoon
the troops had taken their station, and were
ready to commence the action. While Nichols
and Herrick were bringing their troops together,
the Indians were alarmed at the prospect, and

100 HEROES OF THE I.EVOLUTION.

pushed off between the two corps ; but re-
ceived a fire as they were passing, by which
three of them were killed and two wounded.
Nichols then began the attack, and was followed
by all the other divisions ; those in the front
immediately advanced, and in a few minutes
the action became general. It lasted about two
hours, and was like one continued peal of
thunder. Baum made a brave defence; and
the German dragoons, after they had expended
their ammunition, led by their colonel, charged
with their swords, but they were soon over-
powered. Their works were carried on all
sides, their two pieces of cannon were taken.
Colonel Baum himself was mortally wounded
and taken prisoner, and all his men, except a
few who had escaped into the woods, were
either killed or taken prisoners. Having com-
pleted the business by taking the whole party,
the militia began to disperse and look out for
plunder. But in a few minutes Stark received
information that a large reinforcement was on
their march, and within two miles of him.
Fortunately at that moment Colonel Warner
came up with his regiment from Manchester.
This brave and experienced officer commanded
a regiment of continental troops, which had

JOHN STARK. 101

been raised in Vermont. Mortified that he had
not been in the former engagement, he instantly
led on his men against Breyman, and began
the second engagement. Stark collected the
militia as soon as possible, and pushed on to his
assistance. The action became general, and
the battle continued obstinate on both' sides
till sunset, when the Germans were forced to
give way, and were pursued till dark. They
left their two field-pieces behind, and a con-
siderable number were made prisoners. They
retreated in the best manner they could, im-
proving the advantages of the evening and
night, to which alone their escape was ascribed.
In these actions the Americans took four
brass field-pieces, twelve brass drums, two
hundred and fifty dragoon swords, four ammu-
nition wagons, and about seven hundred prison-
ers, with their arms and accoutrements. Two
hundred and seven men were found dead upon
the spot, the numbers of wounded were un-
known. The loss of the Americans was but
small ; thirty were slain, and about forty were
wounded. Stark was not a little pleased at
having so fair an opportunity to vindicate his
own conduct. He had now shown that no ne-
glect from Congress had made him disaffected

102

HEROES OF THE EEVOLUTIOK.

to the American cause, and that he had ren-
dered a much more important service than he
could have done by joining Schuyler, and re-
maining inactive in his camp. Congress em-
braced the opportunity to assign to him his
rank; and though he had not given to them
any account of his victory, or wrote to them
at all upon the subject, on October the fourth
they resolved, " That the thanks of Congress
be presented to General Stark, of the New-
Hampshire militia, and the officers and troops
under his command, for their brave and suc-
cessful attack upon, and signal victory over
the enemy, in their lines at Bennington : and
that Brigadier Stark be appointed a brigadier-
general in the army of the United States."
And never were thanks more deserved, or more
wisely given to a military officer.

" In his official account of the affair. General
Stark thus writes : 'It lasted two hours, the
hottest I ever saw in my life ; it represented one
continued clap of thunder : however, the enemy
were obliged to give way, and leave their field-
pieces and all their baggage behind them : they
were all environed within two breast-works
with artiller}^ ; but our martial courage proved
too strcng for them. I then gave orders to rally

JOHN STARK. 103

again, in order to secure the victory ; but in a
few minutes was informed that there was a
large reinforcement on their march, within
two miles. Colonel Warner's regiment luckily
coming up at the moment, renewed the attack
with fresh vigour. I pushed forward as many
of the men as I could to their assistance ; the
battle continued obstinate on both sides until
sunset ; the enemy v/as obliged to retreat ; we
pursued them till dark, and had day lasted an
hour longer, should have taken the whole body
of them.'

" On what small events does the popular
humour iind military success depend ! The cap-
ture of one thousand Germans by General
Washington, at Trenton, had served to wake up,
and save the whole continent. The exploit of
Stark at Bennington, operated with the same
kind of influence, and produced a similar effect.

This victory was the first event that had
proved encouraging to the Americans in the
northern department, since the death of General
Montgomery. Misfortune had succeeded mis-
fortune, and defeat had followed defeat from
that period till now. The present instance was
the first in which victory had quitted the royal
standard, or seemed even to be wavering. She

104' HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

was now found with the American arms, and
the effect seemed, in fact, to be greater than the
cause.* It raised the spirit of the country to an
uncommon degree of animation ; and by
showing the militia what they could perform,
re'ndered them willing and desirous to turn out
and try what fortunes would await their ex-
ertions. It had a still greater effect on the
royal army. The British generals were sur-
prised to hear that an enemy whom they had
contemplated with no other feelings than those
of contempt, should all at once wake up, and
discover much of the spirit of heroism. To
advance upon the mouth of cannon, to attack
fortified lines, to carry strong entrenchments,
were exploits which they supposed belonged
exclusively to the armies of kings. To see a
body of American militia, ill dressed, but little
disciplined, without cannon, armed only with
farmers' guns,without bayonets, and who had
been accustomed to fly at their approach ] that
such men should force the entrenchments, cap-
ture the cannon, kill and make prisoners of a
large body of the roj^al array, was a matter of
indignation, astonishment and surprise."

"General Stark volunteered his services
under General Gates at Saratoga, and assisted in

JOHN STARK- 105

the council which stipulated the surrender of
General Burgoyne ; nor did he relinquish his
valuable services till he could greet his native
country as an independent empire. General
Stark was of the middle stature, not formed by
nature to exhibit an erect soldierly mien. His
manners were frank and unassuming, but he
manifested a peculiar sort of eccentricity and
negligence, which precluded all display of
personal dignity, and seemed to place him
among those of ordinary rank in life. His
character, as a private citizen, was unblemished,
and he was ever held in respect. For the last
few years of his life, he enjoyed a pecuniary
bounty from the government. He lived to the
advanced age of ninety-three years, eight
months, and twenty-four days, and died May
8th, 1822.''

HUGH MERCER,

MajorGeneral is the American Armt.

Tn fisht
In a just cause, and for our country's glory.
Is the best office of ihe best of men ;
And to decline when these motives urgp,
is infamy beneath a coward's ba?en«ss.

Havards llegulus.

In the revolution which released our country
from the domination of Great Britain, foreign-
ers as we]l as native Americans, espoused the
cause of the colonies. No examples are ne-
cessary to prove this: — we at once think of
Steuben, — of Lafayette, — of Kosciusko — of
the many who left their native land to strike a
blow for freedom in the Western World.
Numerous were the Britons, also, who joined
the standard of patriotism, even though it was
raised in opposition to the lion q^ their own
banner. Instances of two of ihe most cele-
brated of these, both for their noble qualities
and early deaths, — for they occurred during an
early period of the contest, — we see in James

Montgomery, and Hugh Mercer. The fc/rmer
106

HUGtt FIERCER. 107

we need not further mention in this place,—
but of the latter we will give a brief sketch,

Hugh Mercer was born near Aberdeen in
the north of Scotland, about the year 1723,
He studied medicine^ and as an assistant surgeon
he was with the army of the Pretender, Charles
Edward, at the field of Culloden. That battle
Was fought on the 16th April, 1746, and early
in the year 1747, Mercer, fleeing from Scotland
in consequence of his participation in the re-
bellion, landed at Philadelphia. Thirty years
afterwards his corpse was interred in that
place — and finally, on the 26th November
1840, his remains, with all the ^ pride, pomp,
and circumstance, of glorious war,' were re-
moved from their first resting place, and buried
in the beautiful cenietry of Laurel Hill, neaff
the same city»

From Philadelphia Mercer proceeded to the
frontier of Pennsylvania, and settled near
the present village of Mercersburg, Franklin
County. Here he remained engaged, it is be-
lieved, in farming occupations, until the com-
mencement of the French and Indian war of
1755. After Eraddock's defeat, the whole
frontier of this province lay exposed to the
attacks of the savages. The colonists were

108 HEEOSS OF 'IliS RV.VOLlJTlOSi

continually harassed by their incursionsj- and at
last the Legislature raised a force of three
hundred men, and gave the command to Colonel
John Armstrong, under ^^'horn Mercer was
appointed captain. The troops marched, in
1756, from Fort Shirley through a hostile
countr}^ to the Alleghany river, and, unknown
to the enemy, arrived at an Indian town called
Kittanhig, within twenty-five miles of Fort
Du Quesne. At day-break the Americans at-
tacked the place, and after a short action
carried the town, and completely destroyed it.
In this conflict Mercer was severely wounded
in the right wrist and during the confusion
which succeeded the taking of the Fort, he
became separated from the rest of his company,
and was obliged to set off alone, for the settle-
ments. Becoming faint from loss of blood,
and hearing the war-whoop of a body of Indians
who approached, he secreted himself in the
hollow trunk of a large tree. The savages
came up, and stayed about the place some time,
for the purpose of resting themselves, but soon
continued their way. Mercer then pushed on,
and, having reached the waters that emptied
into the Potomac, he finally, after wandering

r?=^

HUGH MERCER. 109

in the woods for some weeks, arrived at Fort
Cumberland.

In 1758, the provincial forces were reorga-
nized, and placed in a more effective condition.
Mercer Was promoted to the rank of lieutenant-
colonel, and accompanied General Forbes in his
expedition to Fort Du Quesne. He was left
with two hundred men in charge of the fort,
and maintained it until he was relieved, not-
withstanding the difficulties which attended it.
Washington — with whom Mercer first became
acquainted in this expedition — wrote to Gover-
nor Fauquier that the men left in the fort were
" in such a miserable condition, having hardly
rags to cover their nakedness, and exposed to
the inclemency of the weather in this inclem-
ent season, that sickness, death and desertion,
if they are not speedily supplied, must destroy
them." As soon as he was relieved, Mercer
left the army, and repaired to Fredericksburg,
in Virginia, where he continued to practise his
profession.

" The repose which the colonies enjoyed be-
tween the peace of 1763 and the beginning of
the revolution, was short and restless. The
young Nation lay, not in the slumber of ex-
haustion, but in the fitful sleep which the
10

110 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION*

consciousness of a great futurity allows. It
slept too with arras by its side, and there
needed but the trumpet's feeblest note to arouse
it to action. The involuntary concord of the
Colonies at the outbreak of the Revolution is
one of its most singular characteristics. It
was a concord that transcended all mere po-
litical relations — it was beyond, and above all
political union. It was the instinctive appre-
ciation of common right, the quick sense of
common injury. There seemed to be but one
frame, and when the hand of tyranny was
rudely laid on a single member, the whole
system quivered beneath the contact, and braced
itself to resistance-"*

None of the colonies was more distinguished
n the contest, for firm resistance to the arbi-
trary measures of the mother country, than
v/ere Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Virginia*
Hancock and Adams, Morris and Hopkinson^
Henry and Jefferson, — -all were untiring in
their efforts to arouse their countrymen. Nor
were these alone : other men^ less celebrated
in the annals of our country, perhaps, but yet
equally patriotic, aided them. Of these Mer-
cer was one. On the 25th of April 1775, he

* Reed's eulogy on General Mercer.

f — —

HUGH MERCER. Ill

wrote to Washington informing him of an
attack upon Williamsburg by some seamen
from a British vessel, and of their removal of
the powder from the magazine, by order of the
Governor. He also said that the volunteer
company of Fredericksburg intended to march
in a few days to Williamsburg to secure the
military stores yet remaining there. In June
of the same year Washington was appointed
Commander-in-chief, and on June 5th 1776,
at the instance of Washington himself, Mercer
was created Brigadier-General of the American
troops.

The army was at New York when Mercer
joined, and he remained with it constantly.
The projected attack on Staten Island was
confided to him — he was with the forces at
White Plains — during the retreat through New
Jersey, — and in short he continued in active
service until his death.

The Americans had at last retired across the
Delaware, but the gloomy appearance of their
prospects increased. In Philadelphia " all able
bodied men who were not conscientiously
scrupulous about bearing arms," were ordered
by General Putnam to '' appear in the State
House yard with their arms and accoutrements,"

112 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

that they might be sent to reinforce General
Washington. With the assistance of these
militia, it was resolved b}^ the Commander-in-
chief, — and the design was warmly seconded
by Greene, Reed, and Mercer, — to attack the
Hessian troops at Trenton. The result of this
plan need not be here given; it is too well
known to every reader of American history.
General Washington immediately after the
action recrossed the Delaware with his prison-
ers, and remained in his former position until
the 29th of December, when he again entered
New Jersey, and on the 2d of January met the
main body of the British troops. The approach
of darkness deferred the action, and during the
night a council of the American officers was
held to consider the means of rescuing them-
selves from the difficulties which surrounded
them. In this state of aifairs Mercer proposed
the brilliant plan of ordering up the Phila-
delphia militia, and making a night march upon
Princeton and Brunswick. It was agreed to
without dissent and the troops were set in
motion. General Mercer commanded the ad-
vanced party, and as day broke he observed a
large body of British troops marching towards
Trenton. He immediately proposed to the

HUGH MERCER. 113

Commander-in-chief to throw himself between
this corps, and their reserve at Princeton, and
thus bring on a general action, — and upon the
consent of Washington he executed the move-
ment. The Americans were however thrown
into confusion at the death of Colonel Hazlet,
and fell back. Mercer's horse was killed, but
notwithstanding that he was alone, he refused
to surrender and fought single handed with a
British detachment which advanced towards
him. The combat was too unequal, however,
and he was beaten down by the butts of mus-
kets and mortally wounded by bayonets. After
the American troops had gained the day he
was removed to a neighbouring house, and
there expired, January 12th, 1777.

"On the 14th of January the remains of
Mercer were brought to Philadelphia, and on the
next day but one were interred in the grave
from which they were removed to Laurel Hill
November 26th 1840.

"There are aged men yet amongst us — so
aged that before the brief remnant of this year
expires the generation may,cease to live — who
remember the solemnity of that funeral. It
was the Nation mourning for her first child.
It was a people in sad amazement that a
10*

114 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

gallant citizen had indeed died for them.
And when the ancient inhabitants of this city
thus gathered in throngs to bear the soldier's
mangled corpse to its place of rest, it was com-
mitted to the ground with the sacred service
which bade them look to the promised day
when " the earth and the sea shall give up their
dead." The grave thus solemnly closed
has been unsealed — affectionately, reverently,
piously. — But yet upon the solemnities of this
day, the reproach of a vain and profane pageant
may fasten, if the mouldering remains of the
dead can be placed in the midst of the living
without stirring every heart to its very centre."*

* Reed's eulogy. Delivered at Philadelphia November
26th, 1810, when the remains of Mercer were disinterred
and again buried at Laurel HilL

ETHAN ALLEN,

Brigadier-General in the American Army.

General Allen was born in Salisbury, Con-
necticut, from whence, while he was yet
young, his parents emigrated to Vermont. By
this circumstance he was deprived of the ad-
vantages of an early education. But, although
he never felt its genial influence, nature had
endowed him with strong powers of mind ; and
when called to take the field, he showed him-
self an able leader, and an intrepid soldier.

At the commencement of the disturbances in
Vermont, about the year 1770, he took a most
active part in favour of the Green Mountain
Boys, as the first settlers were then called, in
opposition to the government of New York.
Bold, enterprising, and ambitious, he undertook
to direct the proceedings of the inhabitants, and
wrote several pamphlets to display the supposed
injustice and oppressive designs of the New
York proceedings. The uncultivated rough-
ness of his own temper and manners seems to
have assisted him in giving a just description of
the views and proceedings of speculating land-

115

116 HEROES OF THE EEVOLUTIOiV.

jobbers. His writings produced eiFects so hostile
to the views of the state of New York, that an
act of outlawry was passed against him, and five
hundred guineas were offered for his apprehen-
sion. But his party was too numerous and
faithful to permit him to be disturbed by any
apprehensions for his safety. In all the
struggles of the day he was successful, and
proved a valuable friend to those whose cause
he had espoused.

The news of the battle of Lexington deter-
mined Allen to engage on the side of his country,
and inspired him with the desire of demonstra-
ting his attachment to liberty by some bold
exploit. While in this state of mind, a plan
for taking Ticonderoga and Crown-Point by
surprise, which was formed by several gentle-
men in Connecticut, was communicated to
him, and he readily engaged in the project.
Receiving directions from the General Assembly
of Connecticut, to raise the Green Mountain
Boys and conduct the enterprise, he collected
two hundred and thirty of the hardy settlers,
and proceeded to Castleton. Here he was
unexpectedly joined by Col. Arnold, who had
been commissioned by the Massachusetts com-
mittee to raise four hundred men, and effect

ETHAN ALLEN. 117

the same object which was now about to be
accomplished. They reached the lake opposite
Ticonderoga on the evening of the 9th of
May, 1775. With the utmost difficulty boats
were procured, and eighty-three men were
landed near the garrison. Arnold now wished
to assume the command, to lead on the men,
and swore that he would go in himself the first.
Allen swore that he should not. The dispute
beginning to run high, some of the gentlemen
present interposed, and it was agreed that both
should go in together, Allen on the right hand,
and Arnold on the left. The following is
Allen's own account of the affair : —

" The first systematical and bloody attempt
at Lexington, to enslave America, thoroughly
electrified my mind, and fully determined me
to take a part with my country. And while I
was wishing for an opportunity to signalize
myself in its behalf, directions were privately
gent to me from the then colony, now state of
Connecticut, to raise the Green Mountain Boys,
and, if possible, with them to surprise and take
the fortress of Ticonderoga. This enterprise I
cheerfully undertook : and after first guarding
all the several passes that led thither, to cut off
all intelligence between the garrison and the

118 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

country, made a forced march from Bennington,
and arrived at tlie lake opposite Ticonderoga on
the evening of the 9th day of May, 1775, with
two hundred and thirty valiant Green-mountain
Boys; and it was with the utmost difficulty
that I procured boats to cross the lake.
However, I landed eighty-three men near the
garrison, and sent the boats back for the rear-
guard, commanded by Col. Seth Warner ; but
the day began to dawn, and I found myself
necessitated to attack the fort before the rear
could cross the lake ; and as it was viewed
hazardous, I harangued the officers and soldiers
in the manner following : — ' Friends and
fellow-soldiers, you have, for a number of
years past, been a scourge and terror to
arbitrary powers. Your valour has been famed
abroad, and acknowledged, as appears by the
advice and orders to me from the General
Assembly of Connecticut, to surprise and take
the garrison now before us. I now propose to
advance before you, and in person conduct you
through the wicket-gate ; for we must this
morning either quit our pretensions to valour,
or possess ourselves of this fortress in a few
minutes; and inasmuch as it is a desperate
attempt, which none but the bravest of men

ETHAN ALLEN. 319

dare undertake, I do not urge it on any contrary
to his will. You that will undertake volunta
rily, poise your firelock.'

" The men being at this time drawn up in
three ranks, each poised his firelock. I ordered
them to face to the right, and at the head of
the centre file, marched them immediately tc»
the wicket-gate aforesaid, where I found a sentry
posted, who instantly snapped his fusee at me.
I ran immediately towards him, and h.i
retreated through the covered way into th(;
parade within the garrison, gave a halloo, an']
ran under a bomb-proof. My party, wh
followed me into the fort, I formed on th.
parade in such a manner as to face the barracks,
which faced each other. The garrison bein
asleep, except the sentries, we gave three
huzzas, which greatly surprised them. One
of the sentries made a pass at one of my officers
with a charged bayonet, and slightly wounded
him. My first thought was to kill him with
my sword, but in an instant I altered the design
and fury of the blow to a slight cut on the side
of the head ; upon which he dropped his gun
and asked quarters, which I readily granted
him ; and demanded the place were the com-
manding officer kept. He showed me a pair of

120 HEROES OP THE REVOLUTION.

stairs in the front of the garrison, which
led up to a second story in said barracks, to
which I immediately repaired, and ordered
the commander, Captain Delaplace, to come
forth instantly, or I would sacrifice the whole
garrison; at which time the captain came
immediately to the door with his breeches in
his hand, when I ordered him to deliver to me
the fort instantly; he asked me by what
authority I demanded it. I answered him, * In
the name of the great Jehovah, and tl
Continental Congress.' The authority of
Congress being very little known at that time,
he began to speak again ; but I interrupted him,
and with my drawn sword near his head, again
demanded an immediate surrender of the
garrison; with which he then compliedj and
ordered his men to be forthwith paraded
without arms, as he had given up the garrison.
In the meantime, some of my officers had given
orders, and in consequence thereof, sundry of
the barrack doors were beat down, and about
one third of the garrison imprisoned, which
consisted of said commander, a Lieutenant
Feltham, a conductor of artillery, a gunner,
two sergeants, and forty-four rank and file ,
about one hundred pieces of cannon, one

ETHAN ALLEN. 121

thirteen inch mortar, and a number of swivels.
This surprise was carried into execution in the
gray of the morning of the 10th of May, 1775.
The sun seemed to rise that morning with a
superior lustre ; and Ticonderoga and its de-
pendencies smiled on its conquerors, who tossed
about the flowing bowl, and wished success to
Congress, and the liberty and freedom of
America. Happy it was for me, at that time,
that the future pages of the book of fate, which
afterwards unfolded a miserable scene of two
years and eight months' imprisonment, were hid
from my view."

This brilliant exploit secured to Alien a high
reputation for intrepid valour throughout the
country. In the fall of 1775, he was sent
twice into Canada to observe the dispositions
of the people, and attach them, if possible, to
the American cause* During one of these
excursions, he made a rash and romantic
attempt upon Montreal. He had been sent by
General Montgomery, with a guard of eighty
men, on a tour into the villages in the neigh-
bourhood. On his return he was met by a
Major Brown, who had been on the same
business. It was agreed between them to make
a descent upon the island of Montreal Allen
11

122 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

was to cross the river, and land with his parly
a little north of the city ; while Brown was to
pass over a little to the south, with near two
hundred men. Allen crossed the river in the
night, as had been proposed; but, by some
means, Brown and his party failed. Instead
of returning, Allen, with great rashness, con-
cluded to maintain his ground. General
Carlton soon received intelligence of Allen's
situation and the smallness of his numbers, and
marched out against him with about forty
regulars, and a considerable number of English,
Canadians, and Indians, amounting, in the
whole, to some hundreds. Allen attempted to
defend himself, but it was to no purpose.
Being deserted by several of his men, and
having fifteen killed, he, with thirty-eight of
his men, were taken prisoners.

He v/as now kept for some time in ironsj
and was treated with the most rigorous and
unsparing cruelty* From his narrative, it
appears that the irons placed on him were
uncommonly heavy, and so fastened, that he
could not lie down otherwise than on his back*
A chest was his seat by day and his bed by
night. Soon after his capture, still loaded with
irons, he was sent to England, being assured

ETHAN ALLEN. 123

that the halter would be the reward of his
rebellion when he arrived there. Finding that
threats and menaces had no effect upon him,
high command and a large tract of the con-
quered country, were afterward offered him,
on condition that he would join the British.
To the last he replied, " that he viewed their
offer of conquered United States land to be
similar to that which the devil offered to Jesus
Christ : to give him all the kingdoms of the
world, if he would fall down and worship him,
when, at the same time, the poor devil had not
one foot of land upon earth."

After his arrival, about the middle of
December, he was lodged, for a short time, in
Pendennis Castle, near Falmouth. On the 8th
of January, 1776, he was put on board a'frigate,
and by a circuitous route again carried to
Halifax. Here he remained closely confined
in the jail from June to October, when he was
removed to New- York. During the passage to
this place, Captain Burke, a daring prisoner,
proposed to kill the British captain, and seize
the frigate 5 but Allen refused to engage in the
plot, and was probably the means of saving
the life of Captain Smith, who had treated him
with kindness. He was kept at New- York

124 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

about a year and a half, sometimes imprisoned,
and sometimes permitted to be on parole.
While here, he had an opportunity to observe
the inhuman manner in which the American
prisoners were treated. In one of the churches
in which they were crowded, he saw seven
lying dead at one time, and others biting
pieces of chips from hunger. He calculated,
that of the prisoners taken on Long-Island and
at Fort-Washington, near two thousand perished
by hunger and cold, or in consequence of
diseases occasioned by the impurity of their
prisons.

Colonel Allen was exchanged for a Colonel
Campbell, May 6th, 1778, and after having
repaired to head quarters, and oiFered his
services to General Washington, in case his
health should be restored, he returned to Ver-
mont. His arrival on the evening of the last
day of May gave his friends great joy, and it
was announced by the discharge of cannon.
As an expression of confidence in his patriotism
and military talents, he was very soon ap-
pointed to the command of the state militia.
His intrepidity, however, was never again
brought to the test, though his patriotism was
tried by an unsuccessful attempt of the British

ETHAN ALLEK. 125

to bribe him to attempt a union of Vermont
with Canada. He died suddenly on his estate,
February 13th, 1789.

General Allen was brave, humane, and gen-
erous ; yet his conduct does not seem to have
been much influenced by considerations res-
pecting that holy and merciful Being, whose
character and whose commands are disclosed
to us in the Scriptures. His notions with re-
gard to religion were loose and absurd. He
believed with Pythagoras, the heathen phil-
osopher, that man, after death, would trans-
migrate into beasts, birds, fishes, reptiles, &c.
and often informed his friends that he himself
expected to live again in the form of a large
white horse.

JOHN CADWALADER,

Brigadier-General in the American Army.

This zealous and inflexible friend of America
was born in Philadelphia, 1742. He was
distinguished for his intrepidity as a soldier,
in upholding the cause of freedom during the
most discouraging periods of danger and mis-
fortune that America ever beheld.

At the dawn of the revolution, he com-
manded a corps of volunteers, designated as
" The silk stocking company, '' of which nearly
all the members were appointed to commissions
in the line of the army. He afterwards was
appointed colonel of one of the city battalions,
and being thence promoted to the rank of
brigadier-general, was intrusted with the com-
mand of the Pennsylvania troops, in the
important operations of the winter campaign
of 1776 and 1777. He acted with this com-
mand, as a volunteer, in the actions of Prince-
ton, Brandywine, Germantown, and Monmouth,
and on other occasions, and received the thanks
of General Washington, whose confidence and

regard he uniformly enjoyed.

126

JOHN CADWALADER. 127

The merits and services of General Cadwal-
ader, induced Congress, early in 1778, to
compliment him, by a unanimous vote, with
the appointment of general of cavalry ; which
appointment he declined, under an impression
that he could be more useful to his country in
the sphere in which he had been acting.

He was strongly and ardently attached to
General Washington, and his celebrated duel
with General Conway arose from his spirited
opposition to the intrigues of that officer to
undermine the standing of the commander-in-
chief. The following anecdote of the ren-
counter is related in the ^* Anecdotes of the
Revolutionary War."

" The particulars of this duel, originating in
the honourable feelings of General Cadwalader,
indignant at the attempt of his adversary to
injure the reputation of the commander-in-
chief, by representing him as unqualified for
the exalted station which he held, appears
worthy of record. Nor ought the coolness
observed on the occasion by the parties to be
forgotten, as it evinces very strongly, that
though imperious circumstances may compel
men of nice feeling to meet, the dictates of
honour may be satisfied without the smallest

128 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

deviation from the most rigid rules of politeness.
When arrived at the appointed rendezvous,
General Cadwalader, accompanied by General
Dickenson, of Pennsylvania, General Conway
by Colonel Morgan, of Princeton", it was agreed
upon by the seconds, that on the word being
given, the principals might fire in their own
time, and at discretion, either by an off-hand
shot, or by taking a deliberate aim. The
parties having declared themselves ready, the
word was given to proceed. General Conway
immediately raised his pistol, and fired with
great composure, but without effect. General
Cadwalader was about to do so, when a sudden
gust of wind occurring, he kept his pistol down
and remained tranquil. ' Why do you not fire,
General Cadwalader? exclaimed Conway.
^Because,' replied General Cadwalader, 'we
came not here to trifle. Let the gale pass and
I shall act my part.' * You shall have a fair
chance of performing it well,' rejoined Con-
way, and immediately presented a full front.
General Cadwalader fired, and his ball entering
the mouth of his antagonist, he fell directly
forward on his face. Colonel Morgan running
to his assistance, found the blood spouting from
behind his neck, and lifting up the cJub of his

.70HN CADWALADER. 129

hair, saw the ball drop from it. It had passed
through his head, greatly to the derangement
of his tongue and teeth, but did not inflict a
mortal wound. As soon as the blood was
sufficiently washed away to allow him to speak,
General Conway, turning to his opponent, said,
good humouredly, ' You fire, general, with much
deliberation, and certainly with a great deal of
effect.' The parties then parted, free from all
resentment."

This patriotic and exemplary man died Feb-
ruary 10th, 1786. In his private life he
exemplified all the virtues that ennoble the
character of man. His conduct was not
marked with the least degree of malevolence
or party spirit. Those who honestly differed
from him in opinion, he always treated with
singular tenderness. In sociability and cheer-
fulness of temper, honesty and goodness of
heart, independence of spirit, and warmth of
friendship, he had no superior. Never did any
man die more lamented by his friends and
neighbours; to his family and relations his
death was a stroke still more severe.

THOMAS CONWAY,

Major-General in the American Army.

" This gentleman was born in L*eland, and
went with his parents to France at the age of
six years, and was, from his youth, educated to
the profession of arms. He had obtained con-
siderable reputation as a military officer, and
as a man of sound understanding and judgment.
He arrived from France with ample recom-
mendations, and Congress appointed him a
brigadier-general in May, 1777. He soon be-
came conspicuously inimical to General Wash-
ington, and sought occasions to traduce his
character. In this he found support from a
faction in Congress, who were desirous that
tke commander-in-chief should be superseded.
The Congress not long after elected General
Conway to the office of inspector-general to
our army, with the rank of Major-general,
though he had insulted the commander-in-chief,
and justified himself in doing so. This gave
umbrage to the brigadiers over whom he was
promoted, and they remonstrated to Congress
against the proceeding, as implicating their
130

THOMAS CONWAYi 131

Honour and character. Convv^ay, now smarting
under the imputation of having instigated a
hostile faction against the ilkistrious Washing-
ton, and being extremely unpopular among the
officers in general, and finding his situation did
not accord with his feelings and views, resigned
his commission, without having commenced
the duties of inspector. He was believed to
be an unprincipled intriguer, and after his
resignation, his calumny and detraction of the
commander-in-chief, and the army generally,
were exercised with unrestrained virulence and
outrage.

No man was more zealously engaged in the
scheme of elevating General Gates to the station
of commander-in-chief. His vile insinuations
and direct assertions in the public newspapers,
and in private conversations, relative to the
incapacity of Washington to conduct the op-
erations of the army, received countenance
from several members of Congress, who were
induced to declare their want of confidence in
him, and the affair assumed an aspect threat-
ening the most disastrous consequences.
Conway maintained a correspondence with
General Gates on the subject, and in one of
his letters he thus expresses himself: " Heaven

132 HEROES OF THE IIEVOLUTION*

has been determined to save your country, or
a weak general and bad counsellors would have
ruined it." He was himself at that time one of
the counsellors against whom he so basely in-
veighs. Envy and malice ever are attendant
on exalted genius and merit. Eut the delusion
was of short continuance ; the name of Wash-
ington proved unassailable, and the base in-
trigue of Conway recoiled with bitterness on
his own head.

General Cadwalader, of Pennsylvania, in*
dignant at the attempt to vilify the character
of Washington, resolved to avenge himself on
the aggressor in personal combat. The par-
ticulars of this meeting are given in the biogra-
phy of General Cadwalader. General Conway,
conceiving his wound to be mortal, and be-
lieving death to be near, acted honourably in
addressing to General Washington, whom he
had perfidiously slandered, the following letter
of apology :

" Philadelphia, Feb. 23, 1778.

a Sir, — I find myself just able to hold my
pen during a few minutes, and take this op-
portunity of expressing my sincere grief for
having done, written, or said any thing dis-
agreeable to your excellency. My career will

THOMAS COAV.V.Y. 133

soon be over, therefore, ju^lice and truth
prompt me to declare my last sentiments.
You are, in my eyes, the gfeat and good man.
May you long enjoy the love, esteem, and
veneration of these states, whose liberties you
have asserted b}^ your virtues.

I am, with the greatest respect^
Your Excellency's

Most obedient and humble servant,
THS. COiNWAY."

^1

WILLIAM RICHARDSON DAVIE,

Coloiiel-Comraandant of the State Cavalry of North-Carolina

Colonel Davie was born in the. village oi
Egremont, in England, on the 20th of June,
1759. His father, visiting South Carolina soon
after the peace of 1763, brought with him this
son; and returning to England, confided him
to the Rev. William Richardson, his maternal
uncle : who becoming much attached to his
nephew, not only took charge of his education,
but adopted him as his son and heir. At the
proper age, William was sent to an academy
in North Carolina j from whence he was,
after a few years, removed to the college of
Nassau-Hal Ij in Princeton, Nev/ Jersey, then
becoming the resort of most of the southern
youth, under the auspices of the learned and
respectable Dr. Witherspoon. Here he
finished his education, graduating in the
autumn of 1776, a year memorable in our
military as well as civil annals.

Returning home, young Davie found himself
shut out for a time from the army, as the
commissions for the troops just levied had been
134

WILLIAM RICHARDSON DAVIE. 135

issued. He went to Salisbury, where he com-
menced the study of law. The war con-
tinuing, contrary to the expectations which
generally prevailed when it began, Davie could
no longer resist the wish to plant himself
among the defenders of his country. Inducing
a worthy and popular friend, rather too old
for military service, to raise a troop of dra-
goons, as the readiest mode of accomplishing
his object, Davie obtained a lieutenancy in
this troop. Without delay the captain joined
the southern army, and soon afterward return-
ed home on a furlough. The command of
the troop devolving on Lieutenant Davie, it
was, at his request, annexed to the legion of
Count Pulaski, where Captain Davie continued,
until promoted by Major-General Lincoln to
the station of brigade-major of cavalry. In
this office Davie served until the affair at Stono,
devoting his leisure to the acquirement of
professional knowledge, and rising fast in the
esteem of the general and army. When
Lincoln attempted to dislodge Lieutenant-
Colonel Maitland from his entrenctied camp on
the Stono, Davie received a severe wound, and
was removed from camp to the hospital in

136 HEllOES OF THE REVOLUTION.

Charleston, where he was confined five
months.

Soon after his recovery, he was empowered
by the government of North Carolina to raise
a small legionary corps, consisting of one troop
of dragoons and two companies of mounted
infantry ; at the head of which he was placed
with the rank of major.

Quickly succeeding in completing his corps,
in whose equipment he expended the last
remaining shilling of an estate bequeathed to
him by his uncle, he took the field, and was
sedulously engaged in protecting the country
between Charlotte and Camden from the
enemy's predatory excursions. On the fatal
19th of August, he was hastening with his
corps to join the army, when he met our dis-
persed and flying troops. He nevertheless
continued to advance toward the conqueror;
and by his prudence, zeal, and vigilance, saved
a few of our wagons, and many of our strag-
glers. Acquainted with the movement of
Sumpter, and justly apprehending that he
would be destroyed unless speedily advised of
the defeat of Gates, he despatched imme-
diately a courier to that officer, communicating
what had happened, performing, in the midst

WILLIAM RICHARDSON DAVIE. 137

of distress and confusion, the part of an ex-
perienced captain.

So much was his conduct respected by the
government of North Carolina, that he was in
the course of September promoted to the rank
of colonel commandant of the cavalry of the
state.

At the two gloomiest epochs of the southern
war, soon after the fall of Charleston and the
overthrow of Gates, it was the good fortune
of Colonel Davie to be the first to shed a gleam
through the surrounding darkness, and give
hope to the country by the brilliancy of his
exploits. In one instance, without loss or in-
jury on his part, he entirely destroyed an
escort of provisions, taking forty prisoners,
with their horses and arms. In the other,
under the immediate eye of a large British
force, which was actually beating to arms to
attack him, he routed a party stronger than his
own, killing and wounding sixty of the enemy,
and carrying off with him ninety-six horses
and one hundred and tvv^enty stand of arms.

When Lord Cornwallis entered Charlotte, a

small village in North Carolinj^, Colonel Davie,

at the head of his detachment, threw himself

in his front, determined to give him a specimen

12*

138 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

of the firmness and gallantry with which the
inhabitants of the place were prepared to dis-
pute with his lordship their native soil.

Colonel Tarlton's legion formed the British
van, led by Major Hanger, the commander
himself being confined by sickness. When
that celebrated corps had advanced near to the
centre of the village, where the Americans
were posted, Davie poured into it so destruc-
tive a fire, that it immediately wheeled and
retired in disorder. Being rallied on the
commons, and again led on to the charge, it
received on the same spot another fire with
similar effect.

Lord Cornwallis witnessing the confusion
thus produced among his choicest troops, rode
up in person, and in a tone of dissatisfaction
upbraided the legion with unsoldierly conduct,
reminding it of its former exploits and reputa-
tion.

Pressed on his flanks by the British infantry,
Colonel Davie had now fallen back to a new
and well selected position. To dislodge him
from this, the legion cavalry advanced on him
a third time, in rapid charge, in full view
of their commander-in-chief, but in vain.
Another fire from the American marksmen

WILLIAM RICHAllDSON DAVIE. 139

killed several of their officers, wounded Major
Hanger, and repulsed them again with increased
confusion.

The main body of the British being now
within musket shot, the American leader
abandoned the contest.

It was by strokes like these that he seriously
crippled and intimidated his enemy, acquired
an elevated standing in the estimation of his
friends, and served very essentially the interest
of freedom.

In this station he was found by General
Greene, on assuming the command of the
southern army ; whose attention had been oc-
cupied from his entrance into North Carolina,
in remedying the disorder in the quarter-master
and commissary departments. To the first,
Carrington had been called ; and Davie was
now induced to take upon himself the last,
much as he preferred the station he then
possessed. At the head of this department,
Colonel Davie remained throughout the trying
campaign which followed, contributing greatly
by his talents, his zeal, his local knowledge,
and his influence, to the maintenance of the
difficult and successful operations which fol-
lowed. While before Ninetv-Six, Greene,

140 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

foreseeing the difficulties again to be encoun-
tered in consequence of the accession of force
to the enemy by the arrival of Ihree regiments
from Ireland, determined to send a confidential
officer to the legislature of North Carolina,
then in session, to represent to them his relative
condition, and to urge their adoption of effectual
measures without delay, for the collection of
magazines of provisions and the reinforcement
of the army. Colonel Davie was selected by
Greene for this important mission, and immedi-
ately repaired to the seat of government, where
he ably and faithfully exerted himself to give
effect to the views of his general.

The effect of the capture of Cornwallis as-
suring the quick return of peace, Colonel
Davie returned home, and resumed the profes-
sion with the practice of the law in the town
of Halifax, on the Roanoke.

He was afterward governor of North Caro-
lina, and one of our ambassadors to France at
a very portentous conjuncture.

The war in the south was ennobled by great
and signal instances of individual and partizan
valour and enterprise. Scarcely do the most
high drawn heroes of fiction surpass, in their
darings and extraordinary achievements, many

WILLIAM RICHARDSON DAVIE. 141

of the real ones of Pickens, Marion, Sumpter,
and Davie, who figured in the southern states
during the conflict of the revolution.

Colonel Davie, although younger by several
years, possessed talents of a higher order, and
was much more accomplished in education and
manners, than either of his three competitors
for fame. For the comeliness of his person,
his martial air, his excellence in horsemanship
and his consummate powers of field eloquence,
he had scarcely an equal in the armies of his
country. But his chief excellence lay in the
magnanimity and generosity of his soul, his
daring courage, his vigilance and address, and
his unrelaxing activity and endurance of toil.
If he was less frequently engaged in actual
combat than either of his three compeers, it
was not because he was inferior to either
of them in enterprise or love of battle. His
district being more interior, was, at first, less
frequently invaded by British detachments.
When, however. Lord Cornwallis ultimately
advanced into that quarter, his scouts and
foraging parties found in Colonel Davie and
his brave associates, as formidable an enemy
as they had ever encountered.

CHRISTOPHER GADSDEN,

BHIOA.mER-GEN£RAL AND LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR OF" SOUIU

Carolina.

This venerable patriot of the revolution was
born in Charleston, about the j^ear 1724. He
vi^as sent to England by his father, while a
youth, where he was educated. At the age
of sixteen he returned to Carolina, and finished
his education in the counting-house of Mr.
Lawrence, of Philadelphia.

General Gadsden had naturally a strong love
for independence. He was born a republican.
Under a well ordered government he was a
good subject, but could not brook the encroach-
ments of any man, or body of men, to entrench
on his rights.

"As early as 1766," says Judge Johnson,
" there was at least one man in South Carolina
who foresaw and foretold the views of the
British government, and explicitly urged his
adherents to the resolution to resist even to
death. General Gadsden, it is well known,
alvt^ays favoured the most decisive and energetic
measures. He thought it folly to temporize,
142

CiiKISTorHElL 'JADSDENi- 143

and insisted that cordial reconciliation, on
honourable terms, was impossible. When
the news of the repeal of the stamp-act arrived,
and the whole community was in ecstacy at
the event, he, on the contrary, received it with
indignation, and privately convening a party
of his friends, he harangued them at con-
siderable length on the folly of relaxing their
opposition and vigilance, or indulging the
fallacious hope that Great-Britain would re-
linquish her designs or pretensions. He drew
their attention to the preamble of the act, and
forcibly pressed upon them the absurdity of
rejoicing at an act that still asserted and main-
tained the absolute dominion over them. And
then reviewing all the chances of succeeding
in a struggle to break the fetters, when again
imposed upon them, he pressed them to prepare
their min'ds for the event. The address was
received with silent but profound devotion ;
and with linked hands, the whole party pledged
themselves to resist ; a pledge that was faith-
fully redeemed when the hour of trial arrived."
"In June, 1775, when the Provincial
Congress determined to raise troops, Gadsden,
though absent on public duty at Philadelphia,
was, without his consent or knowledge, elected

3K^i

4>4> HEROES OF TflE REVOLUTlO.Xd

colonel of the first regiment. - For personam
courage he was inferior to no man. In know-
ledge of the military art, he had several
equals, and some superiors ; but from the great
confidence reposed in his patriotism, and the
popularity of his name, he was put at the head
of the new military establishment. He left
Congress, and repaired to the camp in Carolina^
declaring that ' wherever his country placed
him, whether in the civil or military depart-
ment ; and if in the latter, whether as corporal
or colonel, he would cheerfully serve to the
utmost of his ability.' "

In the next year he was promoted by Con*
gress to the rank of brigadier-general. He
commanded at Fort-Johnson, when the fort
on Sullivan's Island was attacked ; and he was
prepared to receive the enemy in their progress
o Charleston. The repulse of the British pre-
vented his coming into action. Their retreat

elieved South Carolina from the pressure of
vvar for two years. In this period, Gadsden
resigned his militaiy command, but continued

o serve in the assembly and the privy council,
ind was very active in preparing for and

ndeavouring to repel the successive invasions
if the state by the British in 1779 and 1780

CHRISTOPHER GADSDtN* 145

He was the friend of every vigorous measure,
and always ready to undertake the most
laborious duties, and to put himself in the front
of danger.

When Charleston surrendered by capitula-
tion, he was lieutenant-governor, and paroled
as such, and honourably kept his engagement.
For the three months which followed, he w^as
undisturbed; but on the defeat of Gates, in
August, 1780, the British resolved that he and
several others, who discovered no disposition
to return to the condition of British subjects,
should be sent out of the country. He was
accordingly taken in his own house by a file
of soldiers, and put on board a vessel in the
harbour. He knew not why he was taken up,
nor what was intended to be done with him,
but supposed it was introductory to a trial
for treason or rebellion, as the British gave
out that the country was completely con-
quered.

He was soon joined by twenty-eight com*-
patriots, wtK) were also taken up on the same
day.

He drew from his pocket half a dollar, and
turning to his associates with a cheerful coun-
tenance, assured them that was all the money
13

U6

HEROES or THE REVOLUTIOiV.

he had at his command. The conquerors seiit
him and his companions to St. Augustine, then
a British garrison.

On their landing, limits of some extent were
offered to them, on condition of their renewing
the parole they had given in Charleston, " to
do nothing injurious to the British interest."
When this was tendered to General Gadsden,
he replied, " That he had already given one,
and honourably observed it ; that, in violation
of his rights as a prisoner under a capitulation,
he had been sent from Charleston, and that,
therefore, he saw no use in giving a second
parole." The commanding officer replied,
" He would enter into no arguments, but
demanded an explicit answer whether he
would or would not renew his parole." Gene-
ral Gadsden answered with that high-minded
republican spirit which misfortunes could not
keep down, " I will not* In God I put my
trust, and fear no consequences." "Think
better of it, sir," said the officer ] " a second
refusal will fix your destiny ; a dungeon will
be your future habitation." "Prepare it
then," said the inflexible patriot, " I will give
no parole, so help me God.^^ He was instantly
hurried off to the castle, and there confined for

CHRISTOPHEE. GADSDEN. 147

ten. months in a small room, and in a state of
complete separation from his fellow-prisoners,
and in total ignorance of the advantages gained
by his countrymen, but with most ample
details of their defeats, and particularly of
the sequestration of his estate with that of the
other Carolina rebels.

After Andre's arrest, Colonel Glazier, the
governor of the castle, sent to advise General
Gadsden to prepare himself for the worst,
intimating that as General Washington had
been assured of retaliation if Andre was
executed, it was not unlikely that he would
be the person selected. To this message he
magnanimously replied, " That he was always
prepared to die for his country, and that he
would rather ascend the scaffold than purchase
with his life the dishonour of his country."

In the course of 1781, the victories of
General Greene procured an equivalent for
the release of all the prisoners belonging to
South Carolina. Mr. Gadsden was discharged
from close confinement, and rejoined his
fellow-prisoners. The reciprocal congratula-
tions on the change of circumstances, and
on seeing each other after ten months separa-
tion, though in the same garrison, may be

148

HE HOES OF THE HE VOLUTION.

more easily conceived than expressed. They
were all conveyed hj water from St. Augustine
to Philadelphia, and there delivered. On
their arrival they were informed, for the first
time, of the happy turn American affairs had
taken subsequent to Gates' defeat. General
Gadsden hastened back to Carolina to aid in
recovering it from the British. He v/as elected
a member of the assembly which met at
Jacksonborough in 1782.

General Gadsden continued in the country
throughout the year 1782, serving as one of
the governor's council. On the 14th of
December, 1782, he, with the American army
and citizens, made their triumphant entry into
Charleston in the rear of the evacuating
British. In the first moment of his return,
after an absence of more than two years, he
had the pleasure of seeing the British fleet,
upward of three hundred sail, in the act of
departing from the port, and the capital, as
well as the country, restored to its proper
owners. Mr. Gadsden henceforward devoted
himself to private pursuits, but occasionally
served in the assembly, and with unspeakable
delight in the two state conventions ; the one
for the ratification of the national constitution

CHRISTOPHER GADSDEN. li'S

in 1788, and the other for revising the state
constitution in 1790.

He survived his 81st year, generally en-
joying good health, and at last died, more
from the consequences of an accidental fall
than the weight of disease, or decays of nature.

His opinions of lawyers were not favourable.
He considered their pleadings as generally
tending to obscure what was plain, and to
make difficulties where there were none ; and
much more subservient to render their trade
lucrative than to advance justice. He adhered
to that clause of Mr. Locke's fundamental
constitution, which makes it " a base* and vile
thing to plead for money or reward;" and
wished that the lawyers, when necessary to
justice, should be provided with salaries at the
public expense, like the judges, that they
might be saved from the shame of hiring their
tongues to the first who offered or gave the
largest fee. Of physicians he thought very
little. He considered temperance and exercise
superior to all their prescriptions, and that in
most cases they rendered them altogether
unnecessary. In many things he was particu-
lar. His passions were strong, and required
all his religion and philosophy to curb them.
13*

150 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

His patriotism was both disinterested and
ardent. He declined all offices of profit, and
through life refused to take the compensations
annexed by law to such offices of trust as were
conferred on him. His character was im-
pressed with the hardihood of antiquity ; and
he possessed an erect, firm, intrepid mind,
which was well calculated for buffeting with
revolutionary storms."

HORATIO GATES,

Major-General in the American ArxMY.

General Gates was a native of England,
and was born in the year 1728. He was
educated to the military profession, and entered
the British army at an early age, in the capa-
city of lieutenant, where he laid the foundation
of his future military excellence. Without
purchase he obtained the rank of major. He
was aid to General Monckton at the capture
of Martinico, and after the peace of Aix-Ia-
Chapelle he was among the first troops which
landed at Halifax under General Cornwallis.
He was an officer in the army which accom-
panied the unfortunate Braddock in the ex-
pedition against Fort du Quesne, in the year
1755, and was shot through the body.

When peace was concluded, he purchased
an estate in Virginia, where he resided until
the commencement of the American war, in
1775. Having evinced his zeal and attach-
ment to the violated rights of his adopted
country, and sustaining a high military reputa-
tion, he was appointed by Congress adiutant-

151

152 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

general, with the rank of brigadier, and he
accompanied General Washington to the
American camp at Cambridge, in July, 1775,
where he was employed for some time in a
subordinate, but highly useful, capacity.

In June, 1776, Gates was appointed to the
command of the army of Canada, and on
reaching Ticonderoga, he still claimed the
command of it, though it was no longer in
Canada, and was in the department of General
Schuyler, a senior officer, who had rendered
eminent services in that command. On rep-
resentation to Congress, it was declared not to
be their intention to place Gates over Schuyler,
and it was recommended to these officers to
endeavour to cooperate harmoniously. Gen-
eral Schuyler was, however, shortly after
directed by Congress to resume the command
of the northern department, and General Gates
withdrew himself from it; after which he
repaired to head-quarters, and joined the army
under General Washington in Jersey.

Owing to the prevalent dissatisfaction with
the conduct of General Schuyler in the eva-
cuation of Ticonderoga, Gates was again di-
rected to take command. He arrived about the
21st of August, and continued the exertions

HORATIO GATES. 153

to restore the affairs of the department, which
had been so much depressed by the losses
consequent on the evacuation of Ticonderoga.
It was fortunate for General Gates that the
retreat from Ticonderoga had been conducted
under other auspices than his, and that he took
the command when the indefatigable, but
unrequited labours of Schuyler, and the courage
of Stark and his mountaineers, had already
ensured the ultimate defeat of Burgoyne.

Burgoyne, after crossing the Hudson, advan-
ced along its side, and encamped on the height,
about two miles from Gates' camp, which was
three miles above Stillwater. This movement
was the subject of much discussion. Some
charged it on the impetuosity of the general,
and alleged that it was premature, before he
was sure of aid from the royal forces posted
in New York, but he pleaded the peremptory
orders of his superiors. The rapid advance of
Burgoyne, and especially his passage of the
North River, added much to the impracticabil-
ity of his future retreat, and made the ruin of
his army in a great degree unavoidable. The
Americans, elated with their successes at
Bennington and Fort Schuyler, thought no
more of retreating, but came out to meet the

I54< HEROES OF THE REVOLUTIOiN".

advancing British, and engaged them with
firmness and resolution.

The attack began a little before mid-day,
September 19th, between the scouting parties
of the two armies. The commanders of both
sides supported and reinforced their respec-
tive parties. The conflict, though severe, was
only partial for an hour and a half ; but after
a shoi't pause, it became general, and continued
for three hours without any intermission. A
constant blaze of fire was kept up, and both
armies seemed determined on death or victory.
The Americans and British alternately drove,
and were driven by each other. The British
artillery fell into our possession at every
charge, but we could neither turn the pieces
upon the enemy nor bring them off, so sudden
were the alternate advantages. It was a
gallant conflict, in which death, by familiarity,
lost his terrors ; and such was the order of the
Americans, that, as General Wilkinson states,
the wounded men, after having their wounds
dressed, in many instances returned again into
the battle. Men, and particularly officers,
dropped every moment, and on every side.
Several of the Americans placed themselves
on high trees, and as often as they could dis-

HORATIO gatp:s» 155

tinguish an officer's uniform, took him off by
deliberately aiming at his person. Few actions
have been characterized by more obstinacy
in attack or defence. The British repeatedly
tried their bayonets, but without their usual
success in the use of that weapon.

The British lost upwards of five hundred
men, including their killed, wounded, and
prisoners. The Americans, inclusive of the
missing, lost three hundred and nineteen.
Thirty-six out of forty-eight British artillerists
were killed or wounded. The 62d British
regiment, which was five hundred strong
when it left Canada, was reduced to sixty men^
and four or five officers. In this engagement
General Gates, assisted by Generals Lincoln
and Arnold, commanded the American army,
and General Burgoyne was at the head of his
army, and Generals Phillips, Reidesel, and
Frazer, with their respective commands, were
actively engaged.

This battle was fought by the general con-
cert and zealous cooperation of the corps
engaged, and was sustained more by individual
courage than military discipline. General
Arnold, who afterwards traitorously deserted
his country, behaved with the most undaunted

156 HEROES OF THE P.EVOLUTIOiN'.

courage, leading on the troops, and encouraging
them by his personal efforts and daring ex-
posure. The gallant Colonel Morgan obtained
immortal honour on this day. Lieutenant-
Colonel Brooks, with the eighth Massachusetts'
regiment, remained in the field till about eleven
o'clock, and was the last who retired. Major
Hull commanded a detachment of three hun-
dred men, who fought with such signal ardour
that more than half of them were killed.
The whole number of Americans engaged in
this action was about two thousand five hun-
dred 5 the remainder of the army, from its
unfavourable situation, took little or no part in
the action.

Each army claimed the victory, and each
believed himself to have beaten, with only
part of its force, nearly the whole of the
enemy. The advantage, however, was de-
cidedly in favour of the Americans. In every
quarter they had been the assailants, and after
an encounter of several hours they had not lost
a single inch of ground.

General Gates, whose numbers increased
daily, remained on his old ground. His right,
wliich extended to the river, had been rendered

(F

HORATIO GATESj

157

unassailable, and he used great industry to
strengthen his left.

Both armies retained their position until the
7th of October ; Burgoyne, in the hope of being
relieved by Sir Henry Clinton ; and Gates, in
he confidence of growing stronger every day,
and of rendering the destruction of his enemy
more certain. But receiving no further in-
telligence from Sir Henry, the British general
determined to make one more trial of strength
with his adversary. The following account of
the brilliant affair of the 7th of October, 1777,
is given in Thacher's Military Journal : —

" I am fortunate enough to obtain from our
officers, a particular account of the glorious
event of the 7th instant. The advanced parties
of the two armies came into contact about
three o'clock on Tuesday afternoon, and imme-
diately displayed their hostile attitude. The
Americans soon approached the royal army,
and each party in defiance awaited the deadly
blow. The gallant Colonel Morgan, at the
head of his famous rifle corps, and Major
Dearborn, leading a detachment of infantry,
commenced the action, and rushed coura-
geously on the British grenadiers, commanded
by Major Ackland ; and the furious attack was
14

158

HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

most lirmly resisted. In all parts of the field
the conflict became extremely arduous and
obstinate ; an unconquerable spirit on each side
disdaining to yield the palm of victory.
Death appeared to have lost his terrors ; brea-
ches in the ranks were no sooner made thau
supplied by fresh combatants, awaiting a
similar fate. At length the Americans press
forward with renewed strength and ardour, and
compel the whole British line, commanded by
Burgoyne himself, to yield to their deadly fire,
and they retreat in disorder. The German
troops remain firmly posted at their lines:
these were now boldly assaulted by Brigadier-
General Learned, and Lieutenant-Colonel
Brooks, at the head of their respective com-
mands, with such intrepidity, that the works
were carried, and their brave commander,
Lieutenant-Colonel Breyman, was slain. The
Germans were pursued to their encampment,
which, with ail the equipage of the brigade,
fell into our hands. Colonel Cilley, of Gene-
ral Poor's brigade, having acquitted himself
honourably, was seen astride on a brass field-
piece, exulting in the capture. Major Hull,
of the Massachusetts line, was among those
who so bravely stormed the enemy's entrench-

HORATIO GATES.

159

merit, and acted a conspicuous part. General
Arnold, in consequence of a serious misunder-
standing with General Gates, was not vested
with any command, by which he was ex-
ceedingly chagrined and irritated. He en-
tered the field, however, and his conduct was
marked with intemperate rashness ; flourishing
his sword, and animating the troops, he struck
an oflicer on the head without cause, and gave
him a considerable wound. He exposed him-
self to every danger, and, with a small party
of riflemen, rushed into the rear of the enemy,
where he received a ball which fractured his
leg, and his horse was killed under him.
Nightfall put a stop to our brilliant career,
though the victory was most decisive ; and it
is with pride and exultation that we recount
the triumph of American bravery. Besides
Lieutenant-Colonel Breyman slain. General
Frazer, one of the most valuable officers in the
British service, was mortally wounded, and
survived but a few hours. Frazer was the soul
of the British army, and was just changing the
disposition of a part of the troops to repel a
strong impression which the Americans had
made, and were still making, on the British
right, when Morgan called together two or

160 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION. "^

three of his best marksmen, and pointing to
Frazer, said, ' Do you see that gallant officer ?
that is General Frazer — I respect and honour
him ; but it is necessary he should die.' This
was enough. Frazer immediately received
his mortal wound, and was carried off the
field. Sir Francis Clark, aid-de-camp to Gene-
ral Burgoyne, was brought into our camp with
a mortal wound, and Major Ackland, who
commanded the British grenadiers, was wound-
ed through both legs, and is our prisoner.
Several other officers, and about two hundred
privates, are prisoners in our hands, with nine
pieces of cannon, and a considerable supply
of ammunition, which was much wanted for
our troops. The loss on our side is supposed
not to exceed thirty killed, and one hundred
wounded, in obtaining this signal victory."

The position of the British army, after the
action of the 7th, was so dangerous, that an
immediate and total change of position became
necessary, and Burgoyne took immediate
measures to regain his former camp at Sara-
toga, There he arrived with little molestation
from his adversary. His provisions being now
reduced to the supply of a few days, the
transports of artillery and baggage towards

HORATIO GATES. 161

Canada being rendered impracticable by the
judicious measures of his adversary, the British
general resolved upon a rapid retreat, merely
with what the soldiers could carry. On ex-
amination, however, it was found that they
were deprived even of this resource, as the
passes through which their route lay, were so
strongly guarded, that nothing but artillery
could clear them. In this desperate situation
a parley took place, and on the 17th of Octo-
ber the whole army surrendered to General
Gates.

The prize obtained consisted of more than
five thousand prisoners, forty-two pieces of
brass ordnance, seven thousand muskets, clo-
thing for seven thousand men, with a grea
quantity of tents, and other military stores.

Soon after the convention was signed, the
Americans marched into their lines, and were
kept there until the royal army had deposited
their arms at the place appointed. The deli-
cacy with which this business was conducted,
reflected honour on the American general.
Nor did the politeness of Gates end here.
Every circumstance was withheld that could
constitute a triumph- in the American army.
The captive general was received by his con"
14*

162 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

queror with respect and kindness. A number
of the principal officers of both armies met at
General Gates' quarters, and for a while
seemed to forget, in social and convivial plea-
sures, that they had been enemies.

General Wilkinson gives the following
account of the meeting between General Bur-
goyne and General Gates :

"General Gates,' advised of Burgoyne's
approach, met him at the head of his camp,
Burgoyne in a rich royal uniform, and Gates
in a plain blue frock. When they had ap-
proached nearly within sword's length, they
reined up and halted. I then named the
gentleman, and General Burgoyne, raising his
hat most gracefully, said, * The fortune of war,
General Gates, has made me your prisoner;'
to which the conqueror, returning a courtly
salute, promptly replied, 'I shall always be
ready to bear testimony that it has not been
through any fault of your excellency.' "

The thanks of Congress were voted to Gene-
ral Gates and his army ; and a medal of gold,
in commemoration of this great event, waa
ordered to be struck, to be presented to him
by the president, in the name of the United
States.

HORATIO GATES. 163

It was not long after that the wonderful
discovery was supposed to be made, that the
Illustrious Washington was incompetent to the
task of conducting the operations of the Ame-
rican army, and that General Gates, if elevated
to the chief command, would speedily melior-
ate the condition of our affairs. There were
those who imputed to General Gates himself a
principal agency in the affair, which, how-
ever, he promptly disavowed. But certain it
is, that a private correspondence was main-
tained between him and the intriguing General
Conway, in which the measures pursued by
General Washington are criticised and repro-
bated ; and in one of . Conway's letters, he
pointedly ascribes our want of success to a
weak general and bad counsellors. Genera
Gates, on finding that General Washington
had been apprised of the correspondence,
addressed his excellency, requesting that he
would disclose the name of his informant ; and
in violation of the rules of decorum, he
addressed the commander-in-chief on a subject
of extreme delicacy, in an open letter trans-
mitted to the president of Congress. General
Washington, however, did not hesitate to
disclose the name and circumstances which

Ib4f HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

brought the affair to light. General Gates,
then, with inexcusable disingenuousness, at-
tempted to vindicate the conduct of Conway,
and to deny that the letter contained the repre-
hensible expressions in question, but utterly
refused to produce the ori2;inal letter. This
subject, however, was so ably and candidly
discussed by General Washington, as to cover
his adversary with shame and humiliation. It
was thought inexcusable in Gates, that he ne-
glected to communicate to the commander-in-
chief an account of so important an event as
the capture of the British army at Saratoga,
but left his excellency to obtain the information
by common report.

Dr. Thacher, in his Military Journal, relates
the following anecdote : " ]VIr. T , an en-
sign in our regiment, has, for some time, dis-
covered symptoms of mental derangement.
Yesterday he intruded himself at General Gates'
head-quarters, and after some amusing conversa-
tion, he put himself in the attitude of devotion,
and prayed that God would pardon General
Gates for endeavouring to supersede that god-
like man, Washington. The general appeared
to be much disturbed, and directed Mr. Pierce,
his aid-de-camp, to take him away."

HORATIO GATES. 165

On the 13th of June, 1780, General Gates
was appointed to the chief command of the
southern army. Rich in fame from the fields
of Saratoga, he hastened to execute the high
and important trust; and the arrival of an
officer so exalted in reputation, had an imme-
diate and happy effect on the spirits of the
soldiery and the hopes of the people. It was
anticipated that he who had humbled Great
Britain on the heights of the Hudson, and
liberated New York from a formidable invasion,
would prove no less successful in the south,
and become the deliverer of Carolina and
Georgia from lawless rapine and military rule.
But anticipations were vain, and the best
founded hopes were blighted ! In the first and
only encounter which he had with Lord Corn-
wallis, at Camden, August 15th, he suffered a
total defeat, and was obliged to fly from the
enemy for personal safety.*

Proudly calculating on the weight of his
name, and too confident in his own superiority,
he slighted the counsel which he ought to have
respected, and hurrying impetuously into the

* When the appointment of General Gates to the chiet
command of the southern army was announced, General
Lee remarked, that "his northern laurels wcxild soon be
exchanged for southern willov-s"

166 HEROES OF THE IIEVOLUTION.

field of battle, his tide of popularity ebbed us
fast at Camden as it had flowed at Saratoga.

It would be great injustice, however, to
attribute the misfortune altogether to the com-
mander, under his peculiar circumstances. A
large proportion of his force consisted of law
militia, who were panic-struck, and fled at the
first fire } their rout was absolute and irretriev-
able. In vain did Gates attempt to rally them.
That their speed might be the greater, they
threw away their arms and accoutrements, and
dashed into the woods and swamps for safety.
A rout more perfectly wild and disorderly, or
marked with greater consternation and dismay,
was never witnessed. Honour, manhood,
country, home, every recollection sacred to
the feelings of the soldier and the soul of the
brave, was merged in an ignominious love of life.

But from the moment General Gates assumed
the command in the south, his former judgment
and fortune seemed to forsake him. He was
anxious to come to action immediately, and to
terminate the war by a few bold and energetic
measures ; and two days after his arrival in
camp, he began his march to meet the enemy,
without properly estimating his force.

The active spirits of the place being roused

IlORATIO GATES. 167

and encouraged by the presence of a con-
siderable army, and daily flocking to the
standard of their country. General Gates, by a
delay of action, had much to gain in point of
numbers. To the prospects of the enemy, on
the contrary, delay would have been ruinous.
To them there was no alternative but immediate
battle and victory, or immediate retreat. Such,
however, was the nature of the country, and
the distance and relative position of the two
armies, that to compel the Americans to action
was impossible. The imprudence of the
American general in hazarding an engagement
at this time, is further manifested by the fact,
that in troops on whose firmness he could safely
rely, he was greatly inferior to his foe, they
amounting to sixteen hundred veteran and
highly disciplined regulars, and he having less
than a thousand continentals.

General Gates having retreated to Salisbury,
and thence to Hillsborough, he there succeeded
in collecting around him the fragments of an
army. Being soon after reinforced by several
small bodies of regulars and militia, he again
advanced towards the south, and took post in
Charlotte. Here he continued in command
until the 5th day of October, fifty days after

168 ilEROES OF THE REVOLUTIQN,f

his defeat at Camden, when Congress passed a
resolution requiring the commander-in-chief to
order a court of inquiry on his conduct, as
commander of the southern army, and to ap-
point some other officer to that command.
The inquiry resulted in his acquittal; and it
was the general opinion that he was not treated
by Congress with that delicacy, or indeed
gratitude, that was due to an officer of his
acknowledged merit. He, however, received
the order of his supersedure and suspension^
and resigned the command to General Greene
with becoming dignity, as is manifested, much
to his credit, in the following order :

^^Head-quarters, Charlotte, 3d Dec, 1780,

Parole, Springfield — countersign, Greene.

"The honourable Major-General Greene,
who arrived yesterday afternoon in Charlotte,
being appointed by his excellency General
Washington, with the approbation of the
honourable Congress, to the command of the
southern army, all orders will, for the future,
issue from him, and all reports are to be made
to him.

"General Gates returns his sincere and
grateful thanks to the southern army for their
perseverance, fortitude, and patient endurance

HORATIO GATES, 169

of all the hardships and sufferings they h?ve
undergone while under his command. He
anxiously hopes their misfortunes will cease
therewith, and that victory, and the glorious-
advantages of it, may be the future portion of
the southern army."

General Greene had always been, and con-
tinued to be, the firm advocate of the reputa-
tion of General Gates, particularly if he heard
it assailed with asperity ; and still believed and
asserted, that if there was any mistake in the
conduct of Gates, it was in hazarding an action
at all against such superior force ; and when
informed of his appointment to supersede him,
declared his confidence in his military talents,
and his willingness " to serve under him."

General Gates was reinstated in his military
command in the main army, in 1782 ; but the
great scenes of war were now passed, and he
could only participate in the painful scene of
a final separation.

In the midst of his misfortune, General Gates
was called to mourn the afflictive dispensation
of Providence, in the death of his only son.
Major Garden, in his excellent publication, has
recorded the following affecting anecdote,
which he received from Dr, William Reed •
15

170 HEiioES or TiiK i:evoltjtion.

" Having occasion to call on Gleneral GatCvS^
relative to the business of the department under
my immediate charge, I found him traversing
the apartment which he occupied, under the
influence of high excitement ; his agitation
was excessive — every feature of his counte-*
nance, every gesture betrayed it. Official des-
patches, informing him that he was superseded^
and that the command of the southern army
had been transferred to General Greene, had
just been received and perused by him. His
countenance, however, betrayed no expression
of irritation or resentment ; it was sensibility
alone that caused his emotion. An open letter,
which he held in his hand, was often raised to
his lips, and kissed with devotion, while the
exclamation repeatedly escaped them — ' Great
man ! Noble, generous procedure !' When
the tumult of his mind had subsided, and his
thoughts found utterance, he, with strong ex-
pression of feeling, exclaimed, ' I have received
thisda}^ a communication from the commander-
in-chief, which has conveyed more consolation
to my bosom, more ineffable delight to my
heart, than I had believed it possible for it ever
to have felt again. With affectionate tender-
ness he sj^mpathizes with me in my domestic

1^

HORATIO GATES. 171

misfortunes, and condoles with me on the loss
I have sustained by the recent death of an only
son ; and then with peculiar delicacy, lament-
ing my misfortune in battle, assures me that his
confidence in my zeal and capacity is so little
impaired, that the command of the right wing
of the army will be bestowed on me so soon as
1 can make it convenient to join him.' "

After the peace he retired to his farm in
Berkley county, Virginia, where he remained
until the year 1790, when he went to reside in
New York, having first emancipated his slaves,
and made a pecuniary provision for such as
were not able to provide for themselves.
Some of them would not leave him, but con-
tinued in his family.

On his arrival at New York, the freedom of
the city was presented to him. In 1800 he
accepted a seat in the legislature, but he re-
tained it no longer than he conceived his
services might be useful to the cause of liberty,
which he never abandoned.

His political opinions did not separate him
from many respectable citizens, whose views
differed widely from his own. He had a
handsome person, and was gentlemanly in his
manners, remarkably conrteous to all, and gave

iL.

172 HEROES OF THE R.EVOLUTION.

indisputable marks of a social, amiable, and
benevolent disposition. A few weeks before
his death he closed a letter to a friend in the
following words: — "I am very weak, and
have evident signs of an approaching dissolu-
tion. But I have lived long enough, since I
have to see a mighty people animated with a
spirit to be free, and governed by transcendent
abilities and honour." He died without pos-
terity, at his abode near New York, on the 10th
day of April, 1806, aged seventy-eight years.

NATHAN HALE,

Captain in the American Armv.

After the unfortunate engagement on Long
Csland, General Washington called a council
of war, who determined on an immediate re-
treat to New York. The intention was pru-
dently concealed from the army, who knew
not whither they were going, but imagined it
was to attack the enemy. The field artillery,
tents, baggage, and about nine thousand men,
were conveyed to the city of New York, over
the East River, more than a mile wide, in less
than thirteen hours, and without the knowledge
of the British, though not six hundred yards
distant. Providence in a remarkable manner
favoured the retreating army. The wind,
which seemed to prevent the troops getting
over at the appointed hour, afterward shifted
to their wishes.

Perhaps the fate of America was never sus-
pended by a more brittle thread than previously
to this memorable retreat. A spectacle is here
presented of an army destined for the defence
of a great continent, driven to the narrow
15* 173

174* flEaOES OF THE REVOLUTION.

borders of an island, with a victorious army
double its number in front, with navigable
waters in its rear ; constantly liable to have its
communication cut off by the enemy's navy,
and every moment exposed to an attack. The
presence of mind which animated the com-
mander-in-chief in this critical situation, the
prudence with which all the necessary measures
were executed, redounded as much or more to
his honour than the most brilliant victories.
An army, to which America looked for safety,
preserved; a general who was considered as
an host himself, saved for the future necessities
of his country. Had not, however, the cir-
cumstances of the night, of the wind and
weather, been favourable, the plan, however
well concerted, must have been defeated. To
a good Providence, therefore, are the people
of America indebted for the complete success
of an enterprise so important in its consequences.
This retreat left the British in complete
possession of Long Island. What would be
their future operations remained uncertain.
To obtain information of their situation, their
strength, and future movements, was of high
importance. For this purpose, General Wash-
ington applied to Colonel Knowlton, who

NATHAN HALE.

175

commanded a regiment of light infantry,
which formed the rear of the American army,
and desired him to adopt some mode of gaining
the necessary information. Colonel Knowlton
communicated this request to Captain Nathan
Hale, of Connecticut, who was a captain in
his regiment.

This young officer, animated by a sense of
duty, and considering that an opportunity pre-
sented itself by which he might be useful to
his country, at once offered himself a volunteer
for this hazardous service. He passed in dis-
guise to Long Island, and examined every part
of the British army, and obtained the best
possible information respecting their situation
and future operations.

In his attempt to return, he was apprehended,
carried before Sir William Howe, and the
proof of his object was so clear, that he
frankly acknowledged who he was, and what
were his views. Sir William Howe at once
gave an order to have him executed the next
morning.

This order was accordingly executed in the
most unfeeling manner, and by as great a
savage as ever disgraced humanity. A clergy-
man, whose attendance he desired, v/as refused

176 HEROES OF THE EEV'OLUTION.

him \ a Bible, for a few moments' devotion,
was not procured, although he wished it.
Letters which, on the morning of his execution,
he wrote to his mother and other friends, were
destroyed ; and this very extraordinary reason
given by the provost»martial, " That the rebels
should not know they had a man in their army
who could die with so much Jlrmness."

Unknown to all around him, without a single
friend to offer him the least consolation, thus
fell as amiable and as worthy a young man as
America could boast, with this as his dying
observation, that " he only lamented that he had
but one life to lose for his country. ^^

Although the manner of this execution will
ever be abhorred by every friend to humanity
and religion, yet there cannot be a question but
that the sentence was conformable to the rules
of war, and the practice of nations in similar
cases.

It is, however, but justice to the character
of Captain Hale to observe, that his motives
for engaging in this service were entirely
different from those which generally influence
others in similar circumstances. Neither ex-
pectation of promotion, nor pecuniary reward,
induced him to this attempt. A sense of duty,

NATHAN HALE. 177

a nope that he might in this way be useful to
his country, and an opinion which he had
adopted, that every kind of service necessary
to the general good became honourable by being
necessary, were the great motives which in-
duced him to engage in an enterprise by which
his connexions lost a most amiable friend, and
his country one of its most promising supporters.

The fate of this unfortunate young man
excites the most interesting reflections. To see
such a character, in the flower of youth,
cheerfully treading in the most hazardous paths,
influenced by the purest intentions, and only
emulous to do good to his country, without the
imputation of a crime, fall a victim to policy,
must have been wounding to the feelings even
of his enemies.

Should a comparison be drawn between
Major Andre and Captain Hale, injustice would
be done to the latter, should he not be placed
on an equal ground with the former. While
almost every historian of the American revo-
lution has celebrated the virtues, and lamented
the fate of Andre, Hale has remained unnoticed,
and it is scarcely known such a character
existed.

To the memory of Andre, his country has

178 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

erected the most magnificent monuments, and
bestowed on his family the highest honours
and most liberal rewards. To the memory of
Hale, not a stone has been erected, nor an
inscription to preserve his ashes from insult !

ISAAC HAYNE,

Colonel in the American Arm v.

**Tnis gentleman had been a distinguished
and very active officer in the American service.,
previous to the subjugation of Charleston
When this event took place, he found himself
called to a separation from his family, a dere-
liction of his property, and submission to the
conqueror. In this situation he thought it his
duty to become a voluntary prisoner, and take
his parole. On surrendering himself, he offered
to engage and stand bound on the principles of
honour, to do nothing prejudicial to the British
interest until he vi^as exchanged 3 but his abilities
and services were of such consideration to his
country, that he was refused a parole, and told
he must become a British subject, or submit to
close confinement.

*' His family was then in a distant part of
the country, and in great distress by sickness,
and from the ravages of the royalists in their
neighbourhood. Thus he seemed impelled to
acknowledge himself the subject of a govern*
ment he had relinquished from the purest

179

180 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

principles, or renounce his tenderest connexions,
and leave them without a possibility of his
assistance, and at a moment when he hourly
expected to hear of the death of an affectionate
wife, ill of the small-pox.

"In this state of anxiety, he subscribed a
declaration of his allegiance to the king of
Great Britain, with this express exception, that
he should never be required to take arms
against his country. Notwithstanding this, he
was soon and repeatedly called upon to arm in
support of a government he detested, or to
submit to the severest punishment. Brigadier-
General Patterson, commandant of the garrison,
and the intendant of the British police, a Mr.
Simpson, had both assured Colonel Hayne that
no such thing would be required ; and added,
* that when the royal army could not defend a
country without the aid of its inhabitants, it
would be time to quit it.'

*•' Colonel Hayne considered a requisition to
act in British service, after assurances that this
would never be required, as a breach of con-
tract, and a release in the eye of conscience,
from any obligation on his part. Accordingly
he took the first opportunity of resuming his
arms as an American, assumed the command

ISAAC HAYNE. 18 1

of his own regiment ; and all fond of their
former commander. Colonel Hayne marched
with a defensible body to the relief of his
countrymen, then endeavouring to drive the
British partizans, and keep them within the
environs of Charleston. He very unfortunately,
in a short time, fell into the hands of a strong
British party, sent out for the recovery of a
favourite officer, who had left the American
cause, and become a devotee to the British
government.

" As soon as Colonel Hayne was captured,
he was closely imprisoned. This was on the
twenty-sixth of July. He was notified the
same day, that a court of officers would as=
semble the next day, to determine in what
point of view he ought to be considered, Cn
the twenty-ninth, he was informed that in
consequence of a court of inquiry held the
day before, Lord Rawdon and Lieutenant-
Colonel Balfour had resolved upon his execution
within two days.

" His astonishment at these summary and
illegal proceedings can scarcely be conceived.
He wrote Lord Rawdon that he had no intima«
tion of any thing more than a court of inquiry,
to determine whether he should be considered
16

182

HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION,'.

as an American or a British subject : if the
first, he ought to be set at liberty on parole ; if
the last, he claimed a legal trial. He assured
liis lordship, that on a trial he had many things
to urge in his defence ; reasons that would be
weighty in a court of equity ; and concluded
his letter with observing, ' If, sir, I am refused
this favour, which I cannot conceive from your
justice or humanity, I earnestly entreat that
my execution may be deferred, that I may at
least take a last farewell of my children, and
prepare for the solemn change/

" But his death predetermined, his enemies
were deaf to the voice of compassion. The
I execution of his sentence was hastened, though

[ he reputation and merits of this gentleman

were such, that the whole city was zealous for
bis preservation. Not only the inhabitants in
opposition to the British government, but even
Lieutenant-Governor Bull, at the head of the
royalists, interceded for his life. The principal
ladies of Charleston endeavoured, by their
compassionate interference, to arrest or in-
fluence the relentless hand of power. They
drew up and presented to Lord Rawdon, a
delicate and pathetic petition in his behalf.
His near relations, and his children, who had

^^-Jj

ISAAC HAYNE. 183

JMst performed the funeral rites over the grave
of a tender mother, appeared on their bended
knees, to implore the life of their father. 33ut
in spite of the supplications of children and
friends, strangers and foes, the flinty heart of
Lord Rawdon remained untouched, amidst
these scenes of sensibility and distress. No
melioration of the sentence could be obtained j
and this affectionate father took a final leave
of his children in a manner that pierced the
souls of the beholders. To the eldest of them,
a youth of but thirteen years of age, he de-
livered a transcript of his case, directed him
to convey it to Congress, and ordered him to
see that his father's remains were deposited in
the tomb of his ancestors.

"Pinioned like a criminal, this worthy
citizen walked with composure through crowdi
of admiring spectators, with the dignity of the
philosopher, and the intrepidity of the Chris-
tian. He suffered as a hero, and was hanged
as a felon, amidst the tears of the multitude,
and the curses of thousands, who execrated the
perpetrators of this cruel deed."

iU

CHARLES LEE,

Major-Gener.vl in the American Army.

General Lee was an original genius, pos-
sessing the most brilliant talents, great military
prowess, and extensiv^e intelligence and know-
ledge of the world. He was born in Wale>',
his family springing from the same parent stock
with the Earl of Leicester,

He may be properly called a child of Mars,
for he was an officer when but eleven years old.
His favourite study was the science of war,
and his warmest wish was to become dis-
tinguished in it ; but though possessed oi a
military spirit, he was ardent in the pursuit of
general knowledge. He acquired a competent
skill in Greek and Latin, while his fondness for
travelling made him acquainted with the Italian,
Spanish, German, and French languages.

In 1756, he came to America, captain of a
company of grenadiers, and was present at the
defeat of General Abercoiribie at Ticonderoga,
where he received a severe wound. In 1762,
lie bore a colonel's commission, and served
under Burgoyne in Portugal, where he greatly
184^

CHARLES LEE. 185

distinguished himself, and received the strongest
■recommendations for his gallantry; but hib
early attachment to the American colonies,
evinced in his writings against the oppressive
acts of parliament, lost him the favour of the
ministry. Despairing of promotion, and des-
pising a life of inactivity, he left his native
soil, and entered into the service of his Polish
majesty, as one of his aids, with the rank of
major-general.

His rambling disposition led him to travel all
over Europe, during the years of 1771, 1772,
and part of 1773, and his warmth of temper
drew him into several rencounters, among
which was an affair of honour with an officer
in Italy. The contest was begun with swords,
when the general lost two of his fingers. Re-
course was then had to pistols. His adversaiy
was slain, and he was obliged to flee from the
country, in order that he might avoid the un-
pleasant circumstances which might result from
this unhappy circumstance.

General Lee appeared to be influenced by
an innate principle of republicanism ; an at-
tachment to these principles was implanted in
the constitution of his mind, and he espoused

16

=f^l

186 EEnOES OF THE REVOLUTION.

-he cause of America as a champion of her
Qmancipation from oppression.

Glowing with these sentiments, he embarked
for this country, and arrived at New York on
the 10th of November, 1773. On his arrival
he became daily more enthusiastic in the cause
of liberty, and travelled rapidly through the
colonies, animating, both by conversation and
his eloquent pen, to a determined and perse«
vering resistance to British tyranny.

His enthusiasm in favour of the rights of
the colonies was such, that, after the battle of
Lexington, he accepted a major-general's com-
mission in the American army; though his
ambition had pointed out to him the post of
commander-in-chief as the object of his wishes.
Previous to this, however, he resigned his com-
mission in the British service, and relinquished
his half-pay. This he did in a letter to the
British secretary at war, in which he expressed
his disapprobation of the oppressive measures
of parliament, declaring them to be absolutely
subversive of the rights and liberties of every
individual subject, so destructive to the whole
empire at large, and ultimately so ruinous t(
his majesty's own person, dignity, and family
that he thought himself obliged in conscience,

CHARLES LEE. 187

as a citizen, Englishman, and soldier of a freo
state, to exert his utmost to defeat them.

Immediately upon receiving his appointment,
he accompanied General Washington to the
camp at Cambridge, where he arrived July 2d,
1775, and was received with every mark of
respect.

As soon as it was discovered at Cambridge
that the British General Clinton had left Boston,
General Lee v/as ordered to set forward, to
observe his manoeuvres, and prepare to meet
him in any part of the continent he might visit.
No man was better qualified, at this early stage
of the war, to penetrate the designs of the
enemy, than Lee. Nursed in the camp, and
well versed in European tactics, the soldiera
believed him, of all other officers, the best abl
to face in the field an experienced British
veteran, and lead them on to victory.

New York was supposed to be the object of
the enemy, and hither he hastened M'ith all
possible expedition. Lnmediately on his ar-
rival, Lee took the most active and prompt
measures to put it in a state of defence. He
disarmed all suspected persons within the reach
of his command, and proceeded with such
rigour against the tories, as to give alarm at hia

188 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

assumption of military powers. From the
tories he exacted a strong oath, and his bold
measures carried terror wherever he appeared.

"Not long after he was appointed to the
command of the southern department, and in
his travels through the country, he received
every testimony of high respect from the
people. General Sir Henry Clinton, and Sir
Peter Parker, with a powerful fleet and army,
attempted the reduction of Charleston while
he was in command. The fleet anchored
within half musket-shot of the fort on Sulli-
van's Island, where Col. Moultrie, one of the
bravest and most intrepid of men, commanded.
A tremendous engagement ensued on the 28th
of June, 1776, which lasted twelve hours
without intermission. The whole British force
was completely repulsed, after suffering an
irreparable loss.

" General Lee and Colonel Moultrie received
the thanks of Congress for their signal bravery
and gallantry.

" Our hero had now reached the pinnacle of

his military glory ; the eclat of his name alone

appeared to enchant and animate the most

desponding heart. But here we pause to con-

emplate the humiliating reverse of human

CHARLES LEE. 189

events. He returned to the main army in
October; and in marching at the head of a
large detachment through the Jerseys, having,
from a desire of retaining a separate command,
delayed his march several days, in disobedience
of express orders from the commander-in-chief,
he was guilty of most culpable negligence in
regard to his personal security. He took up
his quarters two or three miles from the main
body, and lay for the night, December ] 3th,
1776, in a careless, exposed situation. In-
formation of this being communicated to
Colonel Harcourt, who commanded the British
light-horse, he proceeded immediately to the
house, fired into it, and obliged the general to
surrender himself a prisoner. They mounted
him on a horse in haste, without his cloak or
hat, and conveyed him in triumph to New
York."

Lee was treated, while a prisoner, with
great severity by the enemy, who affected to
consider him as a state prisoner and deserter
from the service of his Britannic majesty, and
denied the privileges of an American officer.
General Washington promptly retaliated the
treatment received by Lee upon the British
officers in his possession. This state of things

190 HEROES OF TIfE REVOLUTION.

existed until the capture of Burgoyne, when
a complete change of treatment was observed
towards Lee; and he was shortly afterward
exchanged.

The first military act of General Lee after
his exchange, closed his career in the American
army. Previous to the battle of Monmouth,
his character in general was respectable. From
the beginning of the contest, his unremitted
zeal in the cause of America excited and di-
rected the military spirit of the whole conti-
nent; and his conversation inculcated the
principles of liberty among all ranks of the
people.

His important services excited the warm
gratitude of many of the friends of America.
Hence it is said that a strong party was formed
in Congress, and by some discontented officers
in the army, to raise Lee to the first command :
and it has been suggested by many, that General
Lee's conduct at the battle of Monmouth was
intended to effect this plan: for could the
odium of the defeat have been at this time
thrown on General Washington, there is great
reason to suppose that he would have been de-
prived of his command.

It is now to be seen how General Lee termi

r

CHARLES LEE. 191

nated his military career. In the battle of
Monmouth, on the 28th of June, 1778, he
commanded the van of the American troops,
with orders from the commander-in-chief to
attack the retreating enemy. Instead of
obeying this order, he conducted in an un-
worthy manner, and greatly disconcerted the
arrangements of the day. Washington, ad-
vancing to the field of battle, met him in his
disorderly retreat, and accosted him with strong
expressions of disapprobation. Lee, incapable
of brooking even an implied indignity, and
unable to restrain the warmth of his resentment,
used improper language in return, and some
irritation was excited on both sides. The
following letters immediately after passed be-
tween Lee and the commander-in-chief :

Camp, English-Town, 1st July, 1778,
SiR^From the knowledge that I have of
your excellency's character, I must conclude
that nothing but the misinformation of some
very stupid, or misrepresentation of some very
wicked person, could have occasioned your
making use of such very singular expressions
as you did, on my coming up to the ground
where you had taken post : they implied that

192 HEROES OP THE REVOLUTION.

t was guilty either of disobedience of orders,
n^ant of conduct, or want of courage. Your
excellency will, therefore, infinitely oblige me
by letting me know on which of these three
articles you ground your charge, that I may
prepare for my justification; which I have the
happiness to be confident I can do to the army,
to the Congress, to America, and to the world
in general. Your excellency must give me
leave to observe, that neither yourself, nor
those about your person, could, from your
situation, be in the least judges of the merits or
demerits of our manoeuvres ; and, to speak with
a becoming pride, I can assert that to these
manoeuvres the success of the day was entirely
owing. I can boldly say, that had we remained
on the first ground — or had we advanced — or
had the retreat been conducted in a manner
different from what it was, this whole army,
and the interests of America, would have risked
being sacrificed. I ever had, and I hope ever
shall have, the greatest respect and veneration
for General Washington ; I think him endowed
with many great and good qualities ; but in this
instance I must pronounce, that he has been
guilty of an act of ciuel injustice towards a
man who had certainly some pretensions to the

CHARLES LEE4 193

regard of every servant of his country ; and I
think, sir, I have a right to demand some
reparation for the injury committed • and unless
I can obtain it, I must, in justice to myself,
when the campaign is closed, which I believe
will close the war, retire from a service, at the
head of which is placed a man capable of
offering such injuries ; — but at the same time,
in justice to you, I must repeat that I, from my
soul, believe that it was not a motion of your
own breast, but instigated by some of those
dirty earwigs, who will for ever insinuate
themselves near persons in high office ; for I
am really assured that, when General Wash^
ington acts from himself, no man in his army
will have reason to complain of injustice and
indecorum.

I am, sir, and I hope ever shall have reason
to continue, Yours, &c.

CHARLES LEE.
His excellency General Washington,

Head-quarters, English-Town, June 28, 1778.
Sir — I received your letter, dated through
mistake the 1st of July, expressed, as I conceive,
in terms highly improper. I am not conscious
of having made use of any singular expressions
17

194 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

at the time of my meeting you, as you intimate.
What I recollect to have said was dictated by
duty, and v^arranted by the occasion. As
soon as circumstances will admit, you shall
have an opportunity, either of justifying your-
self to the army, to Congress, to America, and
to the world in general, or of convincing them
that you are guilty of a breach of orders, and
of misbehaviour before the enemy on the 28th
instant, in not attacking them as you had been
directed, and in making an unnecessary, dis-
orderly, and shameful retreat.

I am, sir, your most obedient servant,

G. WASHINGTON.

A court-martial, of which Lord Stirling was
president, was ordered for his trial, and after a
masterly defence by General Lee, found him
guilty of all the charges, and sentenced him to
be suspended from any command in the army
for the term of twelve months. This sentence
was shortl}'' afterward confirmed by Congress.

When promulgated, it was like a mortal
wound to the lofty, aspiring spirit of General
Lee ; pointing to his dog, he exclaimed — " Oh
tliat I was that animal, that I might not call
man my brother." He became outrageous, and

CHARLES LEE. 195

from that moment he was more open and
virulent in his attack on the character of the
commander-in-chief, and did not cease in his
unwearied endeavours, both in his conversation
and writings, to lessen his reputation in the
estimation of the army and the public. He
was an active abettor of General Conway in
his calumny and abuse of General Washington,
and they were believed to be in concert in their
vile attempts to supersede his excellency in the
supreme command. With the hope of effecting
his nefarious purpose, he published a pamphlet
replete with scurrilous imputations unfavourable
to the military talents of the commander-in-
chief, but this, with his other malignant alle-
gations, was consigned to contempt.

At length Colonel Laurens, one of General
Washington's aids, unable longer to suffer this
gross abuse of his illustrious friend, demanded
of Lee that satisfaction which custom has
sanctioned as honourable. A rencounter ac-
cordingly ensued, and Lee received a wound
in his side.

* Lee now finding himself abandoned by his
friends, degraded in the eye of the public, and
despised by the wise and virtuous, retired to
his sequestered plantation in Virginia. In this

196 HEKOES OF THE REVOLUTION.

spot, secluded from all society, he lived in a
sort of hovel, without glass windows or plaster-
ing, or even a decent article of house furniture ;
here he amused himself with his books and
dogs. On January 10th, 1780, Congress re-
solved that Major-General Lee be informed
that they have no further occasion for his
services in the army of the United States. In
the autumn of 1782, wearied with his forlorn
situation and broken spirit, he resorted to
Philadelphia, and took lodgings in an ordinary
tavern. He was soon seized with a disease of
the lungs, and after a few days' confinement,
he terminated his mortal course, a martyr to
chagrin and disappointment, October 2d, 1782.
The last words which he was heard to utter
were, " stand by me, my brave grenadiers."

General Lee was rather above the middle
size, " plain in his person even to ugliness, and
careless in his manners even to a degree of
rudeness : his nose was so remarkably aquiline,
that it appeared as a real deformity. His voice
was rough, his garb ordinary, his deportment
morose. He was ambitious of fame, without
the dignity to support it. In private life he
sunk into the vulgarity of the clown." His
remarkable partiality for dogs v/as such, that a

1^

CHARLES LEE. 197

number of these animals constantly followed .-
in bis train, and tbe ladies complained tbat he
allowed bis canine adherents to follow him into
the parlour, and not unfrequently a favourite
one might be seen on a chair next his elbow at
table.

In the year 1776, when our army lay at
White-Plains, Lee resided near the road which
General Washington frequently passed, and he
one day with his aids called and took dinner.
After they had departed, Lee said to his aids,
" You must look me out other quarters, or I
shall have Washington and his puppies calling
till they eat me up." The next day he ordered
his servants to write with chalk on the door,
"No victuals cooked here to-day." The
company seeing the hint on the door, passed,
with a smile at the oddity of the man. " The
character of this person," says one who knew
him well, " is full of absurdities and qualities
of a most extraordinary nature."

While in Philadelphia, shortly before his
death, the following ludicrous circumstance
took place, which created no small diversion.

The late Judge Brackenridge, whose poign-
ancy of satire and eccentricity of character
were nearly a match for that of tl e general,
17*

198 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

had dipped his pen in some gall, which greatly
irritated Lee's feelings, insomuch that he chal-
lenged him to single combat, which Bracken-
ridge declined in a very eccentric ^epl3^ Lee
having furnished himself with a horsewhip,
determined to chastise him ignominiously on
the very first opportunity. Observing Brack-
enridge going down Market street a few days
after, he gave him chase, and Brackenridge
took refuge in a public house, and barricadoed
the door of the room he entered. A number
of persons collected to see the result. Lee
damned him, and invited him to come out and
fight him like a man. Brackenridge replied,
that he did not like to be shot at, and made
some other curious observations, which only
increased Lee's irritation, and the mirth of the
spectators. Lee, with the most bitter impre-
cation, ordered him to come out, when he said
he would horsewhip him. Brackenridge re-
plied, that he had no occasion for a discipline
of that kind. The amusing scene lasted some
time, until at length Lee, finding that he could
accomplish no other object than calling forth
Brackenridge's wit for the amusement of the
bystanders, retired.

General Lee was master of a most genteel

CHARLES LEE. 199

address, but was rude in his manners, and
excessively negligent in his appearance and
behaviour. His appetite was so whimsical,
that he was every where a most troublesome
guest. Two or three dogs \isually followed
him wherever he went.^ As an officer, he was
brave and able, and did much towards disci-
plining the American array. With vigorous
powers of mind and a brilliant fancy, he was
a correct and elegant classical scholar, and he
both wrote and spoke his native language with
propriety, force, and beauty. His temper was
severe ; the history of his life is little else
than the history of disputes, quarrels, and
duels, in every part of the world. He was
vindictive, avaricious, immoral, impious, and
profane. His principles, as would be expected
from his character, were most abandoned,
and he ridiculed every tenet of religion.
Two virtues he possessed to an eminent de-
gree, sincerity and veracity. It was notorious
that General Lee was a man of unbounded
personal ambition j and, conscious of his
European education, and pre-eminent military
talents and prowess, he eiFected a superiority
over General Washington, and constantly
aimed at tb-; supreme command, little scrupu

200 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION,

lous as to the means employed to accomplisli
his own advancement.

The following is an extract from General
Lee's will.

" I desire most earnestly that I may not be
buried in any church or church-yard, or with-
in a mile of any Presbyterian or Anabaptist
meeting house ; for since I have resided
in this country, I have kept so much bad
company while living, that I do not choose to>
continue it while dead."

JOHN SULLIVAN,

Major-General in the American Army.

Oeneral Sullivan was a native of New
Hampshire, where he resided before the revo-
lution, and attained to a high degree of emi-
nence in the profession of the lav/. He was
a member of the first Congress, in 1774 ; but
on the commencement of hostilities, preferring
a military commission, he relinquished the
fairest prospects of fortune and fame, and ap-
peared among the most ardent patriots and
intrepid warriors.

" In 1775, he was appointed a brigadier
general, and immediately joined the arm^
at Cambridge, and soon after obtained the com-
mand on Winter Hill. The next year he was
ordered to Canada, and, on the death of Gene-
ral Thomas, the command of the army de-
volved on him. The situation of our army in
that quarter was inexpressibly distressing ; des-
titute of clothing, dispirited by defeat and
constant fatigue, and a large proportion of the
troops sick with the small-pox. By his great
exertions and judicious management, he meli-

201

202 HEROES CF THE E.EVOL UTIOJN .

orated the condition of the army, and obtained
general applause. On his retiring from that
command July 12th, 177G, the field-officers
thus addressed him : 'It is to you, sir, the
public are indebted for the preservation of
their property in Canada. It is to you we
owe our safety thus far. Your humanity will
call forth the silent tear and the grateful
ejaculation of the sick. Your universal im-
partiality will force the applause of the wea-
ried soldier.'

"In August, 1776, he was promoted to the
rank of major-general, and soon after was,
with Major-General Lord Stirling, captured by
the British in the battle on Long Island.
General Sullivan being paroled, was sent by
General Howe with a message to Congress,
after which he returned to New York. In
September he was exchanged for Major Gene-
ral Prescott. We next find him in command
of the right division of our troops, in the
famous battle at Trenton, and he acquitted
himself honourably on that ever memorable
day.

" In August, 1777, without the authority of
Congress, or the commander-in-chief, he plan-
ned and executed an expedition against the

JOHN SULLIVAN 203

enemy on Staten Island. Though the enter-
prise was conducted with prudence and success,
in part, it was said by some to have been less
brilliant than might have been expected under
his favourable circumstances ; and as that act
was deemed a bold assumption of responsibili-
ty, and reports to his prejudice being in circu-
lation, a court of inquiry was ordered to in-
vestigate his conduct. The result was an
honourable acquittal ; and Congress resolved,
that the result, so honourable to General Sulli-
van, is highly pleasing to Congress, and that
the opinion of the court be published, in justi'-
fication of that injured officer.

" In the battles of Brandy wine and German-
town, in the autumn of 1777, General Sulli-
van commanded a division, and in the latter
conflict his two aids were killed, and his own
conduct was so conspicuously brave, that Gene*
ral Washington, in his letter to Congress, con*
eludes with encomiums on the gallantry of
General Sullivan, and the whole right wing oT
the army, who acted immediately under the
eye of his excel .ency.

"In August, 1778, General Sullivan, was
sole commander of an expedition to the Island
of Newport, in co-operation with the French

204 HEROES OF THE igt-EVOLUTION.

fleet under the Count D'Estaing. The Marquis
de la Fayette and General Greene volunteered
their services on the occasion. The object of
the expedition was defeated, in consequence of
the French fleet being driven off by a violent
storm. By this unfortunate event, the enemy
were encouraged to engage our army in battle,
in which they suffered a repulse, and General
Sullivan finally eflfected a safe retreat to the
main. This retreat, so ably executed, without
::onfusion or the loss of baggage or stores,
ncreased the military reputation of General
Sullivan, and redounds to his honour as a
skilful commander.

" The bloody tragedy acted at Wyoming, in
1778, had determined the commander-in-chief,
in 1779 J to employ a large detachment from
the continental army to penetrate into the
heart of the Indian country, to chastise the
hostile tribes and their white associates and ad-
herents, for their cruel aggressions on the
defenceless inhabitants. The command of this
expedition was committed to Major-General
Sullivan, with express orders to destroy their
settlements, to ruin their crops, and make such
thorough devastations as to render the country
entirely uninhabitable for the present, and thus

JOHN SULLIVAN- 205

«

to compel the savages to remove to a greater
distance from our frontiers.

" General Sullivan had under his command
several brigadiers, and a well chosen army, to
which were attached a number of friendly
Indian warriors. With this force he penetra-
ted about ninety miles, through a horrid
swampy wilderness and barren mountainous
deserts, to Wyoming, on the Susquehanna
river, thence by water to Tioga, and possessed
himself of numerous towns and villages of
the savages*

" During this hazardous expedition General
Sullivan and his army encountered the most
complicated obstacles, requiring the greatest
fortitude and perseverance to surmount* He
explored an extensive tract of country, and
strictly executed the severe, but necessary
orders he had received* A considerable num-
ber of Indians were slain, some were captured,
their habitations were burnt, and their planta-
tions of corn and vegetables laid waste in the
most effectual manner. * Eighteen villages, a
number of detached buildings, one hundred
and sixty thousand bushels of corn, and those
fruits and vegetables which conduce to the
comfort and subsistence of man, were utterly
18

206 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

destroyed. Five weeks were unremittingly
employed in this work of devastationi'

" On his return from the expedition, he and
his army received the approbation of Congress.
It is remarked on this expedition, by the trans-
lator of M. Chastelleux's travels, an English-
man, then resident in the United States, that
the instructions given by General Sullivan to
his officers, the order of march he prescribed
to his troops, and the discipline he had the
ability to maintain, would have done honour
to the most experienced ancient or modern
generals.

"At the close of the campaign of 1779^
General Sullivan, in consequence of impaired
health, resigned his commission in the army.
Congress, in accepting his resignation, passed
a resolve, thanking him for his past services.
His' military talents and bold spirit of enter-
prise were universally acknowledged. He
was fond of display, and his personal appear-
ance and dignified deportment commanded
respect. After his resignation, he resumed
his professional pursuits at the bar, and was
much distinguished as a statesman, politician,
and patriot. He acquired very considerable
proficiency in general literature, and an exten

JOHN SfJLLIVAN. 207

sive knowledge of men and the world. He
received from Harvard University a degree of
master of arts, and from the University of
Dartmouth a degree of doctor of laws. He
was one of the convention who formed the
state constitution for New Hampshire, was
chosen into the first council, and was after-
wards elected chief magistrate in that state,
and held the office for three years. In Sep-
tember, 1789, he was appointed judge of the
district court for the district of New Hamp-
shire, and continued in the office till his death,
in 1795."

JOSEPH WARREN,

Major-General in the American Army.

"Joseph Warren was born in Roxbury_,
near Boston, in the year 1741. His father
was a respectable farmer in that place, who
had held several municipal offices, to the
acceptance of his fellow citizens. Joseph,
with several of his brothers, was instructed in
the elementary branches of knowledge, at the
public grammar-school of the town, which
was distinguished for its successive instructers
of superior attainments. In 1755, he entered
college, where he sustained the character of a
youth of talents, fine manners, and of a
generous independent deportment, united to
great personal courage and perseverance. An
anecdote will illustrate his fearlessness and de-
termination at that age, when character can
hardly be said to be formed. Several students
of Warren's class shut themselves in a room
to arrange some college affairs, in a way which
they knew was contrary to his wishes, and
barred the door so effectually, that he could
not without great t iolence force it : but he did
20S

JOSEPH WARREN. 209

not give over the attempt of getting among
them; for perceiving that the vi^indow of the
room in which they were assembled was open,
and near a spout which extended from the
roof of the building to the ground, he went to
the top of the house, slid down to the eaves,
seized the spout, and when he had descended as
far as the window, threw himself into the
chamber among them. At that instant the
spout, which was decayed and weak, gave
way and fell to the ground. He looked at it
without emotion, said that it had served his
purpose, and began to take his part in the
business. A spectator of this feat and narrow
escape, related this fact to me in the college-
yard, nearly half a century afterward ; and
the impression it made on his mind was so
strong, that he seemed to feel the same emo-
tion as though it had happened but an hour
before.

"On leaving college, in 1759, Warren
turned his attention to the study of medicine,
under the direction of Doctor Lloyd, an emi-
nent physician of that day, whose valuable
life has been protracted almost to the present
time. Warren was distinguished very soon
after he commenced practice; for when, in
18*

21C heuoes of tiie revolution.

1764, the small-pox spread in Boston, he was
among the most successful in his method of
treating that disease, which was then consider-
ed the most dreadful scourge of the human
race ; and the violence of which had baffled
the efforts of the learned faculty of medicine
from the time of its first appearance. From
this moment he stood high among his brethren,
and was the favourite of the people ; and what
he gained in their good-will he never lost.
His personal appearance, his address, his cour-
tesy, and his humanity, won the way to the
hearts of all ; and his knowledge and superi-
ority of talents secured the conquest. A
bright and lasting fame in his profession, with
the attendant consequences, wealth and influ-
ence, were within his reach, and near at hand :
but the calls of a distracted country were
paramount to every consideration of his own
interests, and he entered the vortex of politics,
never to return to the peaceful course of
professional labour.

" The change in public opinion had been
gradually preparing the minds of most men
for a revolution. This was not openly avow-
ed : amelioration of treatment for the present,
and assurances of kmdness in future, were all

JOSEPH WARREN. 211

that the colonies asked from Great Britain— out
these they did not receive. The mother country
mistook the spirit of her children, and used
threats when kindness would have been the
best policy. When Britain declared her right
to direct, govern, and tax us in any form, and
at all times, the colonies reasoned, remonstra-
ted, and entreated for a while ; and when
these means did not answer, they defied and
resisted. The political writers of the province
had been active and busy, but they were gene-
rally screened by fictitious names, or sent their
productions anonymously into the world ; but
the time had arrived, when speakers of nerve
and boldness were wanted to raise their voices
against oppression in every shape. Warren
possessed first rate qualities for an orator, and
had early declared in the strongest terms his
political sentiments, which were somewhat in
advance of public opinion ; for he held as
tyranny all taxation which could be imposed
by the British parliament upon the colonies.
In times of danger, the people are sagacious,
and cling to those who best can serve them ;
and every eye was on him in every emergency ;
for he had not only the firmness and decision
they wished for in a leader, but was prudent

212 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION

and wary in all his plans. His first object was
to enlighten the people ; and then he felt sure
of engaging their feelings in the general cause.
He knew, when once they began, it would be
impossible to tread back — independence only
would satisfy the country. With an intention
of directing public sentiment, without appear-
ing to be too active, he met frequently with a
considerable number of substantial mechanics,
and others in the middling classes of society,
who were busy in politics. This crisis re-
quired such a man as they found him to be ;
one who could discern the signs of the times,
and mould the ductile materials to his will,
and at the same time seem only to follow
in the path of others. His letter to Barnard,
which attracted the notice of government, had
been written several years before, in 1768;
but in some form or other he was constantly
enlightening the people by his pen : but it is
now difficult, and of no great importance,
to trace him in the papers of that period.
The public was not then always right in
designating the authors of political essays. In
the different situations in which he was called
to act, he assumed as many characters as fable
has ever given to the tutelar god of his pro-

JOSEPH WARREN. 213

fession, and like him, in every one of them,
he retained ;he v/isdom to guide and the power
to charm. At one time he might be found re-
straining the impetuosity, and bridling the fury
of those hot-headed politicians who felt more
than they reasoned, and dared to do more than
became men. Such was his versatility, that
he turned from these lectures of caution
and prudence, to asserting and defending the
most bold and undisguised principles of liberty,
and defying, in their very teeth, the agents of
the crown. Twice he was elected to deliver
the oration on the 5th of March, in commem-
oration of the massacre ; and his orations are
among the most distinguished produced by that
splendid list of speakers who addressed their
fellow citizens on this subject, so interesting to
them all. In these productions generally, , the
immediate causes of this event were over-
looked, and the remote ones alone -were
discussed. Here they were on safe ground;
for tjTanny, in its incipient stages, has no
excuses from opposition ; but in its march, it
generally finds some plausible arguments for its
proceedings, drawn from the very resistance it
naturally produces. These occasions gave the
orators a fine field for remark, and a fair oppor-

214 HEF.OES OF THE REVOLUTION. .

tunity for effect. The great orators of antiqui-
ty, in their speeches^ attempted only to rouse
the people to retsia what they possessed.
Invective, entreaty, and pride, had their effect
in assisting those mighty masters to influence
the people, They were ashamed to lose what
their fathers left them, won by their blood,
and so long preserved b}^ their wisdom, their
virtues, and their courage. Our statesmen had
a harder task to perform ; for they were com-
pelled to call on the people to gain what
they had never enjoyed — an independent rank
and standing among the nations of the world.

" His next oration was delivered March 6th,
1775. It was at his own solicitation that he
was appointed to this, duty a second time. The
fact is illustrative of his character, and worthy
of remembrance. Some British officers of the
army then in Boston, had publicly declared
that it should be at the price of the life of
any man to speak of the event of March 5th,
1770, on that anniversary. Warren's soul took
lire at such a threat, so openly made, and he
wished for the honour of braving it. This was
readily granted : for at such a time a man
would probably find but few rivals. Many
who would spurn the thought of personal fear ""

JOSElPIl WARREN. 215

might be apprehensive that they would be so
far disconcerted as to forget their discourse.
It is easier to fight bravely, than to think clearly
or correctly in danger. Passion sometimes
nerves the arm to fight, but disturbs the
regular current of thought. The day came,
and the weather was remarkably fine. The
Old South Meeting House was crowded at an
early hour. The British officers occupied the
aisles^ the flight of steps to the pulpit, and
several of them were within it. It was not
precisely known whether this was accident or
design. The orator, with the assistance of his
friends, made his entrance at the pulpit win-
dow by a ladder. The officers seeing his
coolness and intrepedity, made way for him to
advance and address the audience. An awful
stillness preceded his exordium. Each man
felt the palpitations of his own heart, and saw
the pale but determined face of his neighbour.
The speaker began his oration in a firm tone
of voice, and proceeded with great energy
and pathos. Warren and his friends were
prepared to chastise contumely, prevent dis-
grace, and avenge an attempt at assassination.

" The scene was sublime 5 a patriot, in
whom the flush of youth and the grace and

216 EEROEri OF TME RETVOLUTIOr?.

dignity of manhood were combined, stood
armed in the sanctuary of God, to animate and
encourage the sons of liberty, and to hurl de-
fiance at their oppressors. The orator com-
menced with the early history of the country,
described the tenure by which we held our
liberties and property — the affection we had
constantly shown the parent country, and
boldly told them how, and by v/hom these
blessings of life had been violated. There
was in this appeal to Britain — in this descrip-
of suffering, agony, and horror, a calm and
high-souled defiance which must have chilled
the blood of every sensible fee. Such another
hour has seldom happened in the history of
man, and is not surpassed in the records of na-
tions. The thunders of Demosthenes rolled at
a distance from Philip and his host — and Tully
poured the fiercest torrent of his invective
when Cataline was at a distance, and his
dagger no longer to be feared : but Warren's
speech was made to proud oppressors, resting
on their arms, whose errand it was to overawe,
and whose business it was to fight.

" If the deed of Brutus deserved to be com-
memorated by history, poetry, painting, and
sculpture, should not this instance of patriotism

JOSEPH WARREN-. 217

and bravery be held in lasting remembrance '
If he

* That struck the foremost man of all this world,'

was hailed as the first of freeman, what
honours are not due to him, who undismayed
bearded the British lion, to show the world
what his countrymen dared to do in the cause
of liberty ? If the statue of Brutus was placed
among those of the gods who were the pre-
servers of Roman freedom, should not that of
Warren fill a lofty niche in the temple reared
to perpetuate the remembrance of our birth as
a nation ?

" If independence was not at first openly
avowed by our leading men at that time, the
hope of attaining it was fondly cherished, and
the exertions of the patriots pointed to this
end. The wise knew that the storm which the
political Prosperos were raising, would pass
away in blood. With these impressions on his
mind, Warren for several years was preparing
himself by study and observation, to take
a conspicuous rank in the military arrange-
ments which he knew must ensue.

" On the 18th of April, 1775, by his agents
in Boston, he discovered the design of the
19

218 HEROES OF THE ilEVoLUTION.

British commander to sieze or destroy our few
stores at Concord. He instantly despatched
several confidential messengers to Lexington.
The Jate venerable patriot, Paul Revere, was
one of thern. This gentleman has given a
ver}^ interesting account of the difficulties he
encountered in the discharge of this duty.
The alarm was given, and the militia, burning
with resentment, were, at day-break on the
19th, on the road to repel insult and aggression.
The drama was opened about sunrise, within a
few yards of the house of God, in Lexington.
Warren hastened to the field of action, in the
full ardour of his soul, and shared the dangers
of the day. While pressing on the enemy, a
musket-ball took off a lock of his hair close to
his ear. The lock was rolled and pinned,
after the fashion of that day, and considerable
force must have been necessary to have cut it
away. The people were delighted with his
cool, collected bravery, and already considered
him as a leader, whose gallantry they were to
admire, and in whose talents they were to
confide. On the 14th of June, 1775, the
Provincial Congress of Massachusetts made
him a major-general of their forces ; but pre-
vious to the date of his commission, he had

JOSEPH WARREN. 219

been unceasing in his exertions to maintain
order and enforce discipline among the troops,
which had hastily assembled at Cambridge,
after the battle of Lexington. He mingled in
the ranks, and by every method and argument
strove to inspire them with confidence, and
succeeded in a most wonderful manner in
imparting to them a portion of the flame
which glowed in his own breast. At such
a crisis genius receives its birth-right — the
homage of inferior minds, who, for self-pre-
servation, are willing to be directed. Pre-
vious to receiving the appointment of major-
general, he had been requested to take the
office of physician-general to the army, but he
chose to be where wounds were to be made,
rather than where they were to be healed. Yet
he lent his aid and advice to the medical
department of the army, and was of great ser-
vice to them in their organization and arrange-
ments.

" He was at this time president of the Pro-
vincial Congress, having been elected, the pre-
ceding year, a member from the town of
Boston. In this body he discovered his extra-
ordinary powers of mjnd, and his peculiar
fitness for responsible offices at such a juncture.

s

220 HEUOES OF THC llEVOLrTIOX.

Cautious in proposing nieasures, he was assidu-
ous ill pursuing what be thought, after mature
deliberation, to be right, and never counted the
probable cost of a measure, when he had
decided that it was necessary to be taken.
When this Congress, which was sitting at
Watertown, adjourned for the daj", he mounted
his horse and hastened to the camp. Every
day ' he bought golden opinions of all sorts of
men;' and when the troops were called to act
on Breed's Hill, he had so often been among
them, that his person was known to most
of the soldiers.

" Several respectable historians have fallen
into some errors in describing the battle in
which he fell, by giving the command of the
troops on that day to Warren, when he was
only a volunteer in the fight. He did not
arrive on the battle-ground until the enemy
had commenced their movements for the
attack. As soon as he made his appearance on
the field, the veteran commander of the day.
Colonel Prescott, desired to act under his
directions -, but Warren declined taking any
other part than that of a volunteer, and added,
that he came to learn the art of war from an
experienced soldier, whose orders he should be

JOSEPH WARREN. 221

happy to obey. In the battle he was armed
with a musket, and stood in the ranks, now and
then changing his place, to encourage his
fellow-soldiers by words and by example.
He undoubtedly, from the state of hostilities,
expected soon to act in his high military
capacity, and it was indispensable, according
to his views, that he should share the dano;ers
of the field as a common soldier with his
fellow-citizens, that his reputation for bravery
might be put beyond the possibility of suspi-
cion. The wisdom of such a course would
never have been doubted, if he had returned
in safety from the fight. In such a struggle
for independence, the ordinary rules of pru-
dence and caution could not govern those who
were building up their names for future use-
fulness by present exertion. Some maxims
drawn from the republican writers of antiqui-
ty, were worn as their mottos. Some precepts
descriptive of the charms of liberty, were
ever on their tongues ; and some classical
model of Greek or Roman patriotism was
constantly in their minds. Instances of great
men mixing in the rank of common soldiers,
were to be found in ancient times, when men
fought for their altars and their homes. The
1 9 *

222 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

cases were parallel, and the examples were
imposing. When the battle was decided, and
our people fled, Warren was one of the last
who left the breastwork, and was slain within
a fev/ yards of it, as he was slowly retiring.
He probably felt mortified at the event of the
day ; but had he known how dearly the victory
was purchased, and how little honour was
gained by those who won it, his heart would
have been at rest. Like the band of Leoni-
das, the vanquished have received, by the
judgment of nations, from which there is no
appeal, the imperishable laurels of victors.
His death brought a sickness to the heart
of the community, and the people mourned
his fall, not with the convulsive agony of a
betrothed virgin over the bleeding corpse
of her lover — but with the pride of the Spar-
tan mother, who, in the intensity of her grief,
smiled to see that the wounds whence life had
iiown, were on the breast of her son — and |

was satisfied that he had died in defence of his |

country. The worth of the victim, and the j

horror of the sacrifice, gave a higher value to [

our liberties, and produced a more fixed determi- j

nation to preserve them.

" The battle of Bunker's Hill has often been

JOSEPH WARREN. 223

described, and of late its minutest details given
to the public ; but never was the military,
moral, and political character of that great
event more forcibly drawn, than in the follow-
ing extract from the North American Review,
for July, 1818 :

* The incidents and the result of the battle
itself, were most important, and indeed most
wonderful. As a mere battle, few surpass
it in whatever engages and interests the atten-
tion. It was fought on a conspicuous emi-
nence, in the immediate neighbourhood of a
populous city ; and consequently in the view
of thousands of spectators. The attacking
army moved over a sheet of water to the
assault. The operations and movements were
of course all visible and all distinct. Those
who looked on from the houses and heights of
Boston had a fuller view of every important
operation and event, than can ordinarily be had
of any battle or that can possibly be had of
such as are fought on a more extended ground,
or by detachments of troops acting in different
places, and at different times, and in some
measure independently of each other. When
the British columns were advancing to the
attack, the flames of Charlestown, (fired, as ia

224} HEROES OF THE DEVOLUTION.

generally supposed, by a shell,) began to ascend.
The spectators, far outnumbering both armies,
thronged and crowded on every height and
every point which afforded a view of the
scene, themselves constituting a very important
part of it.

' The troops of the two armies seemed like
so many combatants in an amphitheatre. The
manner in which they should acquit them-
selves was to be judged of, not as in other cases
of military engagements, by reports and future
history, but by a vast and anxious assembly
already on the spot, and waiting with unspeak-
able concern and emotion the progress of
the day.

* In other battles, the recollection of wives
and children has been used as an excitement to
animate the warrior's breast, and nerve his
arm. Here was not a mere recollection, but
an actual presence of them and other dear con-
nexions, hanging on the skirts of the battle,
anxious and agitated, feeling almost as if
wounded themselves by every blow of the
enemy, and putting forth, as it were, their own
strength, and all the energy of their own
throbbing bosoms, into every gallant effort of
their warrins friends.

JOSEPH WARREN. 225

'But there was a more comprehensive, and
vastly more important view of that day's con-
test, than has been mentioned ; a view, indeed,
which ordinary eyes, bent intently on what
was immediately before them, did not embrace,
but which was perceived in its full extent and
expansion by minds of a higher order. Those
men who were at the head of the colonial
councils, who had been engaged for years
in the previous stages of the quarrel with
England, and who had been accustomed to look
forward to the future, were well apprised of
the magnitude of the events likely to hang on
the business of that day. They saw in it not
only a battle, but the beginning of a civil war,
of unmeasured extent and uncertain issue.
All America, and all England, were likely to
be deeply concerned in the consequences.
The individuals themselves, who knew full
well what agency they had had in bringing
affairs to this crisis, had need of all their
courage : not that disregard of personal safety,
in which the vulgar suppose true courage to
consist, but that high and fixed moral senti-
ment, that steady and decided purpose, which
enables men to pursue a distant end with a full
view of the difficulties and dangers before

226 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

them, and with a conviction that, before they
arrive at the proposed end, should they ever
reach it, they must pass through evil report as
well as good report, and be liable to obloquy
as well as to defeat.

' Spirits that fear nothing else, fear disgrace ;
and this danger is necessarily encountered
by those who engage in civil war. Unsuccess-
ful resistance is not only ruin to its authors,
but is esteemed, and necessarily so, by the laws
of all countries, treasonable. This is the case,
at least till resistance becomes so general and
formidable as to assume the form of regular
war. But who can tell, when resistance com-
mences, whether it will attain even to that
degree of success 1 Some of those persons
who signed the Declaration of Independence,
in 1777, described themselves as signing it,
' as with halters about their necks.' If there
were grounds for this remark in 1776, when
the cause had become so much more general,
how much greater was the hazard when the bat-
tle of Bunker-Hill was fought !

' These considerations constituted, to en-
larged and liberal minds, the moral sublimity
of the occasion; while, to the outward senses,
the movement of armies, the roar of artillery,

JOSEPH WARREN* 227

the brilliancy of the reflection of a summer's
sun from the burnished armour of the British
columns, and the flames of a burning town,
made up a scene of extraordinary grandeur.'

" This eminence has become sacred ground.
It contains in its bosom the ashes of the brave
who died fighting to defend their altars and
their homes. Strangers from all countries
visit this spot, for it is associated in their
memories with Marathon and Plataea, and all
the mighty struggles of determined freemen.
Our citizens love to wander over this field—-
they agreed to awake recollections, and the
youthful to excite heroic emotions. The
battle-ground is now all plainly to be seen —
the spirit of modern improvement, which
would stop the streams of Helicon to turn
a mill, and caused to be felled the trees of
Paradise to make a rafter, has yet spared this
hallowed height.

" If ' the days of chivalry be gone for ever,'
and the high and enthusiastic feelings of gen-
erosity and magnanimity be not so widely
diffused as in more heroic ages, yet it cannot be
denied but that there have been, and still are,
individuals whose bosoms are warmed with a
spirit as glowing and ethereal as ever swelled

228 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION;

the heart of ' mailed knight,' who, in the
ecstacies of love, religion, and martial glory^
joined the war-cry on the plains of Palestine,
or proved his steel on the infidel foe. The
history of every revolution is interspersed
with brilliant episodes of individual prov/ess.
The pages of our own history, when fully
written out, will sparkle profusely with these
gems of romantic valour*

^^ The calmness and indifference of the
veteran ' in clouds of dust, and seas of blood,'
can only be acquired by long acquaintance
with the trade of death ; but the heights of
Charlestown will bear eternal testimony how
suddenly, in the cause of freedom, the peace-
ful citizen can become the invincible warrior
— stung by oppression, he springs forward
from his tranquil pursuits, undaunted by oppo-
sition, and undismayed by danger, to fight even
to death for the defence of his rights. Pa-
rents, wives, children, and country, all the
hallowed properties of existence, are to him
the talisman that takes fear from his heart, and
nerves his arm to victory.

"In the requiem over those who have
fallen in the cause of their country, which

JOSEPH WARREN* 229

'Time with his own eternal lips shall-singj'

the praises of Warren shall be distinctly
heard. The blood of those patriots who have
fallen in the defence of republics, has often
' cried from the ground' against the ingratitude
of the country for which it was shed. No
monument was reared to their fame ; no
record of their virtues written ; no fostering
hand extended to their offspring — but they and
their deeds were neglected and forgotten.
Toward Warren there was no ingratitude-
cur country is free from this stain. Congress
were the guardians of his honour, and remem-
bered that his children were unprotected
orphans. Within a year after his death Con-
gress passed the following resolutions :

" That a monument be erected to the memory
of General Warren, in the town of Boston,
with the following inscription :

IN HONOUR OP

JOSEPH Vf ARREN,

Major-General, of Massachusetts-Bay.

He devoted his Life to the

Liberties of his Country,

and, in bravely defending them,

fell an early Victim in the

20

230 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION*

BATTLE OF BUNKER-HILL3

June 17, 1775.

The Congress of the United States

as an acknowledgment of his

Services and distinguished

Merit, have erected this

Monument to his

memor3^

" It was resolved, likewise, ' that the eldest
son of General Warren should be educated,
from that time, at the expense of the United
States.' On the Ist of July, 1780, Congress,
recognising these former resolutions, further
resolved, ' That it should be recommended to
the executive of Massachusetts-Bay to make
provision for the maintenance and education
of his three younger children. And that
Congress would defray the expense to the
amount of the half-pay of a major-general, to
commence at the time of his death, and con-
tinue till the youngest of the children should
oe of age.' The part of the resolutions re-
lating to- the education of the children, was
carried into effect accordingly. The monu-
ment is not yet erected, but it is not too late."

JOHN LAURENS,

Colonel in the American Army,

"Son of Henry Laurens, was born in
Charleston, in 1755. In youth he discovered
that energy of character which distinguished
him through life. When a lad, though labour-
ing under a fever, on the cry of fire, he leaped
from his bed, hastened to the scene of danger,
and was in a few minutes on the top of the expo-
sed houses, risking his life to arrest the progress
of the flames. This is the more worthy of
notice, for precisely in the same way, and
under a similar, but higher impulse of ardent
patriotism, he lost his life in the year 1782.

" At the age of sixteen he was taken to
Europe by his father, and there put under the
best means of instruction in Geneva, and
afterward in London.

" He was entered a student of law at the
temple in 1774", and was daily improving in
legal knowledge till the disputes between
Great Britain and her colonies arrested his
attention. He soon found that the claims
of the mother country struck at the root of

231

232 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

liberty in the colonies, and that she perse-
veringly resolved to enforce these claims at
every hazard. Fain would he have come out
to join his countrymen in arms at the com-
mencement of the contest ; but the peremptory
order of his father enjoined his continuance in
England, to prosecute his studies and finish his
education. As a dutiful son, he obeyed these
orders ; but as a patriot burning with desire to
defend his country, he dismissed Coke, Little-
ton, and all the tribe of jurists, and substituted
in their place Vauban, Folard, and other
writers on war. He also availed himself of
the excellent opportunities which London
affords of acquiring practical knowledge of
the manual exercise, of tactics, and the me-
chanism of war. Thus instructed, as soon as
he was a freeman of legal age, he quitted
England for France, and by a circuitous
voyage in neutral vessels, and at a considerable
risk, made his way good, in the year 1777, to
Charleston.

" Independence had been declared — the
American army was raised, officered, and in
the field. He who, by his attainments in
general science, and particularly in the military
art, deserved high rank, had no ordinary door

JOHN LAURENS. 233

left open to serve his country, but by entering
in the lowest grade of an army abounding
with officers. General Washington, ever
attentive to merit, instantly took him into
his family as a supernumerary aid-de-camp.
Shortly after this appointment, he had an
opportunity of indulging his military ardour.
He fought and was wounded in the battle of
Germantown, October 4th, 1777. He con-
tinued in General Washington's family, in the
middle states, till the British had retreated from
Philadelphia to New York, and was engaged
in the battle of Monmouth, June 28, 1778.

" After this, the war being transferred more
northwardly, he was indulged in attaching
himself to the army on Rhode Island, where
the most active operations were expected soon
to take place. There he was entrusted with
the command of some light troops. The
bravery and good conduct which he displayed
on this occasion jvas honoured by Congress.

"On the 5th of November, 1778, they
resolved, ' that John Laurens, Esq. aid-de-camp
to General Washington, be presented with
a continental commission of lieutenent-colo-
nel, in testimony of the sense which Congress
entertain of his patriotic and spirited services
20*

234 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

as a volunteer in the American army ; and of
his brave conduct in several actions, particu-
larly in that of Rhode Island, on the 29th of
August last ; and that General Washington be
directed, whenever an opportunity shall offer,
to give Lieutenant-Colonel Laurens command
agreeable to his rank.' On the next day, a
letter from Lieutenant-Colonel Laurens was
read in Congress, expressing ' his gratitude for
the unexpected honour which Congress was
pleased to confer on him by the resolution
passed the day before 5 and the high satisfac-
tion it would have afforded him, could he have
accepted it without injuring the rights of the
officers in the line of the army, and doing an
evident injustice to his colleagues in the family
of the commander-in-chief — that having been
a spectator of the convulsions occasioned in
the army by disputes of rank, he held the
tranquillity of it too dear to be instrumental in
disturbing it, and therefore entreated Congress
to suppress the resolve of yesterday, ordering
him a commission of lieutenant-colonel, and
to accept his sincere thanks for the intended
honour.' In this relinquishment there was a
victory gained by patriotism over self-love.
Lieutenant-Colonel Laurens loved military

JOHN LAUE,ENS. 235

/ame and rank j but he loved his country more,
and sacrificed the former to preserve the peace
and promote the interest of the latter.

" In the next year the British directed their
military operations chiefly against the most
southern states. Lieutenant-Colonel John
Laurens was induced by double motives to
repair to Carolina. The post of danger was
always the object of his preference. His
native state was become the theatre of war.
To its aid he repaired, and in May, 1779, with
a party of light troops, had a skirmish with
the British at Tulifinny. In endeavouring to
obstruct their progress towards Charleston, he
received a wound. This was no sooner cured
than he rejoined the army, and was engaged in
the unsuccessful attack on Savannah, on the
9th of October of the same year. To prepare
for the defence of Charleston, the reduction
of which was known to be contemplated by
the British, was the next object of attention
among the Americans. To this Colonel Lau-
rens devoted all the energies of his active
mind.

" In the progress of the siege, which com-
menced in 1780, the success of defensive
operations became doubtful. Councils of war

236 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

were frequent — several of the citizens were
known to wish for a surrender, as a termina-
tion of their toils and dangers. In these
councils, and on proper occasions, Colonel
Laurens advocated the abandonment of the
front lines, and to retire to new ones to be
erected within the old ones, and to risk an
assault. When these spirited measures were
opposed on the suggestion that the inhabitants
preferred a capitulation, he declared that he
would direct his sword to the heart of the first
citizen who would urge a capitulation against
the opinion of the commander-in-chief.

" When his superior officers, convinced of
the inefficacy of further resistance, were dis-
posed to surrender on terms of capitulation,
he yielded to the neccessity of the case, and
became a prisoner of war. This reverse of
fortune opened a new door for serving his
country in a higher line than he ever yet had
done. He was soon exchanged, and reinstated
in a capacity for acting. In expediting his
exchange, Congress had the ulterior view of
sending him a special minister to Paris, that he
might urge the necessity of a vigorous co-
operation on the part of France with the
United States against Great Britain. When

JOHN LAURENS. 237

this was proposed to Colonel Laurens, he
recommended and urged that Colonel Alexan-
der Hamilton should be employed in preference
to himself. Congress adhered to their first
choice.

" Colonel Laurens sailed for France in the
latter end of 1780, and there, in conjunction
with Dr. Franklin, and Count de Vergennes,
and Marquis de Castries, arranged the plan of
the campaign for 1781, which eventuated in
the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, and finally
in a termination of the war. Within six
months from the day Colonel Laurens left
America, he returned to it, and brought with
him the concerted plan of combined opera-
tions. Ardent to rejoin the army, he Was
indulged with making a verbal report of his
negotiations to Congress ; and in three days set
out to resume his place as one of the aids
of Washington. The American and French
army about this time commenced the siege
of York Town. In the course of it. Colonel
Laurens, as second in command, with his
fellow-aid. Colonel Hamilton, assisted in
stormmg and taking an advanced British re-
doubt, which expedited the surrender of Lord
Cornwallis. The articles of capitulation were

238 IIEHOES OF THE REVOLUTION.

arranged by Colonel Laurens on behalf of the
Americans.

" Charleston and a part of South Carolina
still remained in the power of the British.
Colonel Laurens thought nothing done while
any thing remained undone. He therefore, on
the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, repaired to
South Carolina, and joined the southern army
commanded by General Greene. In the course
of the summer of 1782, he caught a common
fever, and was sick in bed when an expedition
was undertaken against a party of the British,
which had gone to Combakee to carry off rice.
Colonel Laurens rose from his sick bed and
joined his countrymen. While leading an
advanced party, he received a shot, which, on
the 27th of August, 1782, at the close of the
war, put an end to his valuable life, in the
27th year of his age. His many virtues have
been ever since the subject of eulogy, and his
early fall, of national lamentation. The
fourth of July seldom passes without a tribute
to his memory."

THOMAS MIFFLIN,

Major-General in the American Army.

" Thomas Mifflin, a major-general in the
American army during the revolutionary war,
and governor of Pennsylvania, was born in
the year 1744, of parents who were Quakers.
His education was intrusted to the care of the
Rev. Dr. Smith, with whom he was connected
in habits of cordial intimacy and friendship
for more than forty years. Active and zea-
lous, he engaged early in opposition to the
measures of the British parliament. He was a
member of the first Congress, in 1774. He
took arms, and was among the first ofiicers
commissioned on the organization of the con-
tinental army, being appointed quartermaster-
general in August, 1775. For this offence he
was read out of the society of Quakers. In
1777, he was very useful in animating the
militia, and enkindling the spirit which seemed
to have been damped. His sanguine disposi-
tion, and his activity, rendered him insensible
to the value of that coolness and caution
which were essential to the preservation of

239

240 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION^

such an army as was then under the command
of General Washington. In 1787, he was a
member of the convention which framed the
constitution of the United States, and his name
is affixed to that instrument. In October,
1788, he succeeded Franklin as president of
the supreme executive council of Pennsylvania,
in which station he continued till October,
1790. In September, a constitution for this
state was formed by a convention, in which he
presided, and he was chosen the first governor.
In 1794, during the insurrection in Penn-
sylvania, he employed, to the advantage of his
country, the extraordinary powers of elocution
with which he was endowed. The imper-
fection of the militia laws was compensated
by his eloquence. He made a circuit through
the lower counties, and, at different places,
publicly addressed the militia on the crisis in
the affairs of their country, and through his
animating exhortations the state furnished the
quota required. He was succeeded in the
office of governor by Mr. M'Kean, at the
close of the year 1799, and he died at Lancas-
ter, January 20, 1800, in the fifty-seventh
year of his age."

GILBERT MOTTIEiR LAFAYETTE.

Major-General of the American Army.

Marquis de Lafayette was born on the 6th
of September, 1757, at the chateau de Cha-
vagnac, in the department of Haute Loire, and
was the inheritor of a princely fortune, and de-
scended from distinguished ancestors. At
seven years of age, he entered the college of
Louis le Grande, at Paris, and commenced his
litetary education. Here the lovely but ill-
fated Antoinette, the late queen of France, took
him under her immediate patronage, and at a
very early age, he rose to the rank of a com-
missioned officer in the king's guards. In
1774, he married the Countess de Noilles. At
nineteen years of age, he sailed for America,
and landed on the shores of South Carolina,
This illustrious friend had become an advocate
of the colonies, and felt all that ardor in the
cause of liberty which did not desert him in
maturer years. Lafayette had watched atten-
tively the momentous controversy between
Great Britain and her oppressed subjects, and
resolved to make any sacrifice in their -cause.
21

242 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION*

He made known his intention to Dr. Franklin,
then our commissioner in France, who laid be-
fore him the disastrous state of the country.
" The more hopeless your cause," said he, " the
more occasion is there for my assistance, the
more honor shall I acquire by bestowing it."
He immediately equipped a vessel for this en-
terprise at his own expense, and severing the ties
which would have detained him in his native
country, he sailed for the United States. Ar-
rived at Philadelphia, he presented himself be-
fore Congress. " I am come," said he, " to re-
quest two favors of this assemblage of patriots.
One is that I may serve in your army; the
other, that I receive no pay." He w^as imme-
diately received into the family of Washington,
and congress, in July following, tendered him
a commission of major-general. Soon after,
learning the embarrassments of the army, he
gave Washington 60,000 francs, (about 11,000
dollars,) to procure supplies ; by which gener-
ous act, Washington was so affected, that he
embraced Lafayette with tears of joy and affec-
tion. At the battle of Brandywine, the mar-
quis exhibited full evidence of his bravery
and military character, and in this bloody con-
test was wounded. After his recovery, he

3=:^J

LAFAYETTE. 243

joined General Green, in New Jersey, and was
at the head of 2000 men, whom he had formed,
clothed, armed, equipped and disciplined him-
self. He was afterwards actively employed in
different parts of the country, till 1779, when
he returned to France, his object to obtain as-
sistance for his 'adopted country. In this he
succeeded, and in May, 1780, he returned with
the joyful intelligence that a French fleet and
army would soon arrive on our coast. He im-
mediately resumed his command, and in the
campaigns of 1780 and 1781, he displayed the
most consummate generalship in preserving his
little army, then opposed to Lord Cornwallis,
till the siege of that general at Yorktown, where,
collected and undismayed, he shared largely in
the honors of the day. In November, 1781,
the contest, in which he had been so nobly En-
gaged, drawing near a completion, Lafayette
signified his intention of returning to his coun-
try. After the conclusion of peace, in August,
1784, General Lafayette again visited the
United States, and several of the larger cities,
in some of which the freedom of the city was
presented him ; he returned to France in De-
cember following.

Genera] Lafayette was a member of the As*

244 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

sembly of Notables at Versailles, in 1787, and
in 1789 he was elected a member of the States
General, made president of that assembly, and
commandant of the National Guards. In this
capacity his influence was exerted in favor of
lenient measures ; and he did much to prevent
the mob of Paris from running into those
horrid excesses which were afterwards com-
mitted. He acted a conspicuous part on the
day the constitution was adopted, and soon
after resigned his command. In 1792, he was
called again into service ; but on that memora-
ble day, the 10th of August, when the royal
family fled to the National Assembly for safety,
he opposed the fury of the mob, was deprived
of command, a price was set on his head, and
he was obliged to fly his country for safety.
He was thrown into prison by the king of
Prussia, and afterwards chained and imprisoned ~
by the emperor of Austria in the citadel at
Ohnutz. His estate was confiscated. In
prison, he was subjected to the most barbarous
treatment, and frequently threatened with an
ignominious death. Great exertions were made
to obtain his liberation without effect, until, in
1797, in settling terms of peace with Austria,
Bonaparte expressly stipulated that Lafayette

LAFAYETTE. 245

should be set at liberty, and in 1799, after the
overthrow of the French Directory, he returned
to France, and settled at La Grange, about
forty miles from Paris. Previous to Bona-
parte's first abdication, he was elected to the
chamber of deputies, and there proposed a vote
of permanent session, which was passed, and in
consequence, the emperor found himself under
the necessity of abdicating the throne. From
that period to the time of his embarkation for
the United States, with the exception of his
having been once again elected to the chamber
of deputies, General Lafayette spent most of his
time in the pursuits of agriculture at La Grange.

As soon as it was known -in the United States
that the Marquis Lafayette had once more,
embarked for the shores of his adopted country,
a general joy pervaded the nation, and all classes
of citizens were prepared to take a lively inter-
est in his arrival. The cities of New York
and Boston particularly, anticipated the event
with some degree of impatience, and entered
into such general arrangements for his recep-
tion as were best calculated to do honor to
themselves and their illustrious guest.

General Lafayette, accompanied by his son,
George Washington Lafayette, Mr. Auguste Le

2r^"

246 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

Vasseur, and one servant, arrived in the harbor of
New York, on the morning of the 15th of August,
in the ship Cadmus, Captain Allyn, after a
pleasant passage of thirty-one days from Havre.
His arrival was made known by the telegraph
at an early hour, and spread through the city
with electrical rapidity. Broadway was sooil
thronged, and the Battery crowded with peo-
ple, who saUied forth with the expectation that
the hero and veteran of two revolutions would
come directly to the city. The arrangements
of the city authorities, however, for his recep-
tion, having been seasonably communicated to
him, he landed at Staten Island, and was con-
ducted to the seat of the Vice-President, where
he remained through the day, and passed the
night. Fort Lafayette fired a salute as the ship
passed, and a salute was fired as the general
landed.

In the city the national flag was immediately
hoisted and displayed at all the public places
during the day.

PROCEEDIN&S, UPON RECEPTION OF THE MAKQTJIS LAFAY-
ETTE INTO THE CITY OF NEW YORK, ON MONDAY THE
16TH OF AUGUST.-

Arrangements of the Corporation.
The committee of arrangements of the cor-
poration have the pleasure to announce to their

LAFAYETTE, 247

fellow-citizens the arrival of the distinguished
guest of their country, the Marquis de Lafay-
ette.

The following are the arrangements made
for his reception in the city.

The committee of arrangements of the Cor-
poration, the generals and other officers of the
United States Army, the officers of the Navy,
the major-generals and the brigadier-generals of
the Militia, the president of the Chamber of
Commerce, the committee from the Society of
Cincinnati, will proceed at 9 o'clock this day to
Staten Island, where the marquis is lodged,
and escort him to the city. They will be ac-
companied by the steam-boats, all with decora-
tions except that in which the marquis is em-
barked, which will on]y have the flag of the
United States and the flag of New York;
bands of music being in each.

The marquis' embarkation will be announced
by a salute from Fort Lafayette and the steam-
ship Eobert Fulton.

The forts in the harbor will also salute as
the vessels pass.

The masters of vessels are requested to hoist
their flags at mast-head, and, where convenient,
to dress their vessels.

248 HEROES OF THE KEVOLUTION.

The bells of the city will be rung from 12 to
1 o'clock.

The portrait room of the City Hall is appro-
priated to the marquis, where, during his stay,
he will, after this day, between the hours of
twelve and two o'clock, receive the visits of such
of the citizens as are desirous of pa3dng their
respects to him.

The committee of arrangements of the Cor-
poration having accepted the proffered services
of the steam-ship Robert Fulton, and the steam-
boats Chancellor Livingston, Oliver Ellsworth,
Henry Eckford, Connecticut, Bellona, Olive
Branch, Nautilus, &c. ; they were all superbly
dressed with flags and streamers of every na-
tion, and directed to meet and form an aquatic
escort betv/een the south part of the Battery
and Governor's Island, and thence proceed in
order to Staten Island. The spectacle, as the
boats were assembling, was truly interesting
and beautiful. The Battery was crowded with
respectable people of both sexes ; Castle Gar-
den was filled, and every boat that arrived to
take its station was completely crowded with
elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen. The
appearance of the Robert Fulton, as she came
down the East River, from the Navy Yard,

1

LAFAYETTE. 249

escorted by the Connecticut and Oliver Ells-
worth, all superbly decorated, was rich beyond
description. Her yards were manned to the
round-tops, with about 200 seamen from the
Constitution, who made an elegant appearance;
and a battalion of marines, under the command
of Major Smith, was on board, with a band of
music, and many of the naval officers upon this
station, together with several ladies and private
gentlemen.

Arrived at the place of rendezvous, the several
vessels comprising the jfieet took their station,
and proceeded in regular order to the quaran-
tine, as follows: — First, the Chancellor Liv-
ingston, on board of which were the committee
of the Corporation, Major-General Morton and
suite, a number of the members of the Cincin-
nati, including Colonels Willet, Varick, Trum-
bull, Piatt, and others, together with a few
ladies, several officers and professors from
West Point, accompanied by the excellent mil-
itary band attached to that institution. On the
right of the Chancellor, and about a length in
rear, was the Connecticut, and on the left, to
correspond, was the Oliver Ellsworth. Di-
rectly in the rear of the Chancellor was the
Robert Fulton, whose lofty masts and wide-

250 HEROES Of -niR. KEVOLUTION.

spread arms, which literally swarmed with
men, towered proudly above her less-pretend-
ing, but not less gay and beautiful consorts.
On the right of the Robert Fulton, about a
length in the rear, was the Bellona, and on the
left, the Henry Eckford, in a station to corre-
spond ; and the . squadron was closed by the
Oh"ve Branch and Nautilus. The signals ex-
changed, and the steam-boats having attained
their stations, as above stated, the squadron got
under way, amidst the cheers of thousands of
delighted spectators. The view of this fleet
will perhaps never be forgotten. It was not
only unique, but beyond a doubt, one of the
most splendid spectacles ever witnessed on this
pan of the globe. The squadron, bearing six
thousand of our fellow-citizens, majestically took
its course tow^ards Staten Island, there to take on
board our long expected and honored guest. At
one o'clock the fleet arrived at Staten Island, and
in a few minutes a landau was seen approach-
ing the hotel, near the ferry. The Marquis,
the Vice-President, and the Ex-Governor Og-
den of New Jersey, having alighted, a proces-
sion was formed, and the venerable stranger,
supported by these gentlemen, followed by all
the oiHcers of the island, and a crowd of citi'*

LAFAYETTE i 251

zenSj passed through a triumphal arch, round
which was tastefully entwined the French and
American colors. As soon as the marquis and
suite entered on the broad stairs, connected
with, and leading to, the steam-boat which was
to convey him to the city, he was received by
the committee of the Common Council, who
conducted him on board the Chancellor Living-
ston. On entering this splendid vessel, the
marines paid him military honors. He was
now introduced to the committees from most of
our honored associations, and the general offi**
cers representing the infantry. The West
Point band all this time was playing " See
the Conquering Hero Comes," "Oii pent on
etre mieiixr "Hail Columbia," and the "Mar-
seilles Hymn." The steamship now fired a
salute, and the whole squadron got under way
for the city, in the same order as before, except
that the Bellona and Olive Branch fastened
each side of the Cadmus, (the ship which
brought the general from France,) decorated
with colors, and filled with passengers, majes-
tically moved up the bay. The sea was smooth
and placid, and the breeze cool and agreeable.
The most interesting sight was the reception of
the general by his old companions in arms,

252 HEROES OF THE KEVOLUTION.

Colonel Marinos Willet, now in his eighty-^
fifth year, General Van Courtland, General
Clarkson, and the other worthies whom we
have mentioned. Colonel Fish, General Lewis,
and several of his ccrmrades were absent. He
embraced them all affectionately, and Colonel
Willet again and again. He knew and re-
membered them all. It was a reiinion of a
long separated family.

After the ceremony of embracing and con-
gratulations were over, he sat dov/n alongside
of Colonel Willet, who grew young again, and
fought all his battles o'er, " Do you remem-
ber," said he, " at the battle of Monmouth, 1
v/as volunteer aid to General Scott ? I saw
you in the heat of battle. You were but a boy,
but you were a serious and sedate lad. Aye,
aye ; I remember well. And on the Mohawk,
I sent you fifty Indians, and you wrote me that
they set up such a yell, that they frightened
the British horse, and they ran one way and
the Indians another."

No person who witnessed this interview will
ever forget it ; many an honest tear was shed
on the occasion. The young men retired to a
little distance, while the venerable soldiers were
indulging recollections, and embracing each

LAFAYETTE. 253

Other again and again ; and the surrounding
youth silently dropt the tear they could no
longer restrain. Such sincere, such honest
feelings were never more plainly or truly ex-
pressed. The sudden changes of the counte-
nance of the marquis plainly evinced the emo-
tions he endeavored to suppress. He manfully
supported this truly trying situation for some
time, when a revolutionary story from the ven-
erable Willet recalled circumstances long past :
the incident, the friend alluded to, made the
marquis sigh, and his swelling heart was re-
lieved when he burst into tears. The sympa-
thetic feelings extended to all present; and
even the hardy tar rubbed away the tear he
could no longer restrain. The scene was too
affecting to be continued, and one of the Cin-
cinnati, anxious to divert the attention of the
marquis, his eyes flowing with tears, announced
the near approach of the steam-ship. The
marquis advanced to the quarter-railing, where
he was no sooner perceived by the multitude,
than an instantaneous cheer most loudly ex-
pressed the delight they experienced. The
other steamboats in succession presented them-
selves, and passed, each giving three enthusi-
astic cheers. The marquis was delighted, and
,22

254 HEROES OF THE EEVOLUTIO.^.

especially with the activit}^ and quickness with
which 200 of our gallant seamen manned the
yards of ^e steam-frigate, previous to the
salute. About two o'clock, P. M., the fleet
arrived off the Battery, What an impressive
scene! — 3000 men, making a splendid appear-
ance, formed in line with a battering train.
The ramparts and parapets of the Castle were
lined with ladies and gentlemen. The flag-
staff, the windows, and even the roofs of the
houses facing the bay, were literally crowded
with spectators. Hundreds of boats and
wherries surrounded the Battery. The mar-
quis left the Chancellor Livingston in a barge
commanded by Lieutenant Mix, of the navy,
accompanied by the committee of the Corpora-
tion, and the Cincinnati, the generals of in-
fantry, Sec. ; and landed amidst the cheers and
acclamations of 30,000 people, who filled the
Castle, Battery, and surrounding grounds within
sight. The marquis now entered the Castle,
which was tastefully carpeted from the landing
place to the receiving rooms. He then par-
took of some refreshment, and was introduced
to some distinguished citizens. Perceiving the
restless anxiety of nearly 3000 persons in tho
Castle, to see the general, the marquis advanced

LAFAYETTE. 255

to the centre of the rear of the Castle, and was
greeted with loud cheers. From Castle Gar-
den, he proceeded with the appointed com-
mittee, and the military and naval officers, to
review the line of troops under the command
of Brigadier-General Benedict. The muster
was, on this occasion, unusually numerous
and splendid, each corps vying with the others
in paying a tribute of respect to the soldier of
the revolution, the friend and companion of
Washington. After the review, the general,
accompanied by General Morton, entered a
barouche, drawn by four horses^

The committee of the Corporation, accompa-
nied by the general's son, George Washington
Lafayette, and his secretary, Mr. Le Vasseur,
followed the carriages. The general was
escorted by a corps of cavalry, and at the head
of the column of troops, proceeded up Broadway
to the City Hall. The crowds which had as-
sembled to pay honor to the respected visitor,
and to be gratified with a view of his person,
were such as almost to prevent the passage of
the carriages and the troops. The scene could
not but have afforded to the general the most
delightful gratification. The houses to the
very roofs were filled with spectators, and to the

1!

256 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

incessant cheers of the multitude, graceful fe-
males signified their welcome by the silent, but
not less grateful and affecting testimony of the
waving of handkerchiefs.

Arrived at the City Hail, the marquis was
conducted by the committee to the Common
Council Chamber, where the Corporation v/ere
assembled. The members of the Common
Council rose on his entrance, and upon being
presented by the chairman, Alderman Zabris-
kie, to the Mayor, his honor addressed him in
the following speech :

Address of the Mayor.

"General — In the name of the municipal
authority of the city, I bid you a sincere wel-
come to the shores of a country, of whose fre-
dom and happiness you will ever be considered
one of the most honored and beloved founders.

" Your only contemporaries in arms, of whom
indeed but few remain, have not forgot, an-d
their posterity will never forget, the young and
gallant Frenchman who consecrated his youth,
his talents, his fortune, and his exertions, to
their cause — who exposed his life — who shed
his blood, that they might become free and
happy. They will recollect with profound emo-

LAFAYETTE. 257

tiop, so long as they remain worthy of the lib-
erties they enjoy, and of the exertions you nriade
to obtain them, that you came to them in the
darkest period of their struggle — that you
linked your fortune with theirs, when it seemed
almost hopeless — that you shared in the dan-
gers, privations and sufferings of that bitter
struggle, nor quitted them for a moment till it
was consummated on the glorious field of York-
town. Half a century has passed since that
great event, and in that time your name has be-
come as dear to the friends, and as inseparably
connected with the cause of freedom in the old,
as in the new world.

*' The people of the United States look up to
you as to one of their most honored parents —
the country cherishes you as one of the most
beloved of her sons. I hope and trust, sir, that
not only the present, but future conduct of my
countrymen, to the latest period of time, will,
among other slanders, refute the unjust imputa-
tion that republics are always ungrateful to
their benefactors.

" In behalf of my fellow-citizens of New York,
and speaking the warm and universal senti-
ments of the whole people of the United States,
I repeat their welcome to our common country.
22"^

258 HEROES OF THE REV01.UTION.

*' Permit me to add, that the moment of my
life to which I shall look back with the greatesi
pleasure and pride, will be that in which it fell
to mj'' lot to be an organ for expressing, how-
ever feebly, a nation's gratitude."

General Lafayette^s Amiver.

" Sir, — While I am so affectionately received
by the citizens of New York and their worthy
representatives, I feel myself overwhelmed with
inexpressible emotions. The sight of the Amer-
ican shore, after so long an absence ; the recol-
lection of the many respected friends and dear
companions, no more to be found on this land ;
the pleasure to recognize those who have sur-
vived ; this immense concourse of a free repub-
lican population, who so kindly welcome^me; the
admirable appearance of the troops; the presence
of a corps of the national navy; — have excited
sentim-ents, to which no human language can
be adequate. You have been pleased, sir, to
allude to the happiest times, the unalloyed en-
joyments of my public life. It is the pride of my
heart to have been one of the earliest adopted
sons of America : I am proud also to add, that up-
wards of forty years ago I have been particularly
honored with the freedom of this city. I beg

LAFAYETTE. 259

you, Mr. Mayor, — I beg you, gentlemen, to
accept yourselves, and to transmit to the citi-
zens of New York, the homage of my profound
and everlasting gratitude, devotion and re-
spect."

The general and his son were then intro-
duced to the members of the Common Council
individually.

After the adjournment of the Common
Council, the marquis received the marching
salute in front of the City Hall, and again
entered the hall, accompanied by his son and
suite, and in the governor's room received
the Society of the Cincinnati, composed of his
surviving brothers and companions in the
field, a small number of whom still remain to
meet and congratulate their long absent, but
highly respected friend and fellow-soldier.
Here, also, he was met by the officers of the
army and navy, and many citizens and stran-
gers. From the hall, he was accompanied by
the Common Council, and many distinguished
persons, to the City Hotel, to dine, escorted by
the troops.

The whole exhibition, from the landing at
the Battery to the time of the dispersion of the
people at the Park, was in a high degree inter-

260 . HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

esling and gratifying. The numbers collected
were perhaps unequalled on any former festive
occasion. The houses through Broadway were
filled with spectators of the first respectability,
and the street was crowded with people. Every
expression of good feeling was manifested from
the windows, doors, and side-walks; the stran-
ger was welcomed with unfeigned cordiality;
and we think it must have afforded to the
marquis an unusual degree of delight to find
that his services were remembered and ac-
knowledged, and his name cherished, by a free
and grateful people.

The day was singularly fine — the water
scene exceeded in splendor and effect anything
of the kind that has ever been exhibited here ;
the appearance of the military was highly cred-
itable in equipments, movements and discipline .
and we have not a doubt their appearance, when
contrasted by his recollection with the suffering
troops of the war of independence, must have
made a deep impression upon his mind.

On Wednesday morning, the 18th, in com-
pliance with an invitation from Captain Rodg-
ers, commandant of the Na\y Yard, General
Lafayette, attended by the committee of ar-
rangements, and a select circle of ladies and

LAFAYETTE. 26 x

gentlemen, proceeded, in the elegant steamboat
Chancellor Kent, to visit the Navy Yard at
Brooklyn.

As the James Kent passed the Grampus,
lying in the North River, a salute of 21 guns
was fired.

The Kent then proceeded round the Battery
and up the East River, until she came to an-
chor at the dock, where the steam-frigate is
moored, when the marquis and the ladies and
gentlemen of the party disembarked — the
United States frigate Constellation firing at the
same time a salute of 21 guns. On landing,
he was received by three cheers from 200 sail-
ors drawn up for the occasion.

The general then went on board of the
steam-frigate, and was much pleased with the
construction of this formidable and unique naval
battlement.

On returning, the jolly tars gave three more
hearty cheers, and the general proceeded in a
barge to the Navy Yard ; when another salute
of 2] guns was fired on his landing, and he
was received by a battalion of marines.

The general was then conducted on board
the Washington 74, where refreshments were
provided for the whole party. After refreshing

262 HEROES OF THE KEVOLUTION.

himself, the general took a rapid survey of the
ships, and those now building, and returned on
board the Kent, when another salute was fired
by the Constitution.

Upon the return of the Marquis Lafayette
from the Navy Yard on Wednesday, he was
introduced, with his son, to the Historical So-
ciety, at their room iu the Institution, at two
o'clock, P. M. According to a resolution passed
the day before, they were made members of the
society.

After the marquis' arrival at New York, he
early announced his intention to visit Boston,
where he had been particularly invited by dis-
tinguished individuals, and by the city author-
ity; especially as the commencement at the
university in Cambridge, the literary jubilee'
of the state, was to be celebrated in a few days.
While in New York, he received invitations
from Philadelphia, Albany, New Haven, Hart-
ford, and some other cities, to make a visit to
those places, but his desire was first to visit
Boston, if possible.

The interesting visit at Nev/ York being
closed, at an early hour on Friday morning, a
scene of general bustle and activity commenced,
preparatory to the departure of the general for

^

LAFAYETTE. 263

Boston. The city corporation had provided an
elegant carriage to accommodate liim on his
journey to Boston, and deputed four of their
number to attend him on his route.

He was too sensible of the sincerity and
warmth of their felicitation, not to delay his
journey at several villages, and to reciprocate
their kind and cordial salutations. It was
nearly midnight when he reached the town of
Dedham, about ten miles from Boston. Most
of the houses in this pleasant village were
handsomely illuminated ; and a great number
of the inhabitants of both sexes were assembled
to greet him. During the short stay he was
able to make here, he was introduced to many
of the principal citizens of the town and vicin-
ity, who had been anticipating his arrival for
some hours. When he passed through Rox-
bury, at one o'clock, he was accompanied by a
large cavalcade of citizens of that place and
from Boston ; and a salute was fired by the
Roxbury corps of artillery. His arrival here
was also announced by the ascent of rockets
from an eminence in the centre of the town ;
and the note of preparation was thus given for
the parade and pleasure of the succeeding day,
which had been anticipated with uncommon

264' HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

interest and delight. Lafayette and suite pro-
ceeded to the mansion of his Excellency the
Governor, to which they had been invited ; and
the meeting between them was truly affection-
ate and cordiaL

On Tuesday the 24lh, the inhabitants of
Boston hailed the morning light with peculiar
emotions, and were abroad at an early hour,
preparing for the general testimonies of grati-
tude and respect to be presented to the " na-
tion's guest." Many of the older citizens
recollected him in his youthful days, when he
visited the io\vr\, forty -six years ago, at the re-
quest of Congress and Washington, to prevail
on the French admiral to cooperate with his
fleet in a contemplated attack upon the British
forces at Rhode Island. They had not forgot-
ten his zeal and ardor in the cause of America.
They knew his great attachment to, and respect
for, the immortal chief of the American army,
and the confidence which Washington cherished
for Lafayette. And all classes, without intend-
ing to lessen the preeminent services and vir-
tues of Washington, who, under Providence,
was the great and chief agent in achieving our
independence, and in preserving it, after it
had been once established — or to undervalue

LAFAYETTE. 265

the important efforts and courage of many other
revered heroes and patriots, too numerous to
be here named; — all, all were eager to join in
the spontaneous offering of gratitude and affec-
tion, to one so justly celebrated and so greatly
beloved.

He entered the city, the capital of the state,
about eleven o'clock ; and his reception was a
triumph and a jubilee. The day was as bright
as his laurels, and as mild as his virtues. The
various bodies designated to compose the pro-
cession, and perform the honors of the day, as-
sembled at an early hour. The cavalcade was
formed in Common street, at nine o'clock. It
was very numerous, and consisted of the citi-
zens of Boston, of all ranks and classes, on
horseback. Proceeding to the extreme southern
part of the city, near the line of Roxbury, they
were joined by the Mayor and Aldermen, and
members of the Common Council, the Society
of Cincinnati, a great number of public civil
characters, and strangers of distinction, all in
carriages ; by the General and Field Officers of
the first division of militia, and officers of the
army and navy of the United States. An in-
numerable concourse of people on foot lined the
side-walks of the spacious street where the pro-
23

266 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

cession was to be formed, the entrance to the
city from Roxbury, and fortunately named
Washington street. The cavalcade then
proceeded to the mansion of Governor Eustis,
which is a short distance within the town of
Roxbury, and escorted General Lafayette and
tsuite to the line, where the city authorities and
others, who were to compose the procession,
were in waiting to receive him. Here he was
greeted by the immense assemblage of citizens
with repeated and enthusiastic acclamations, for
several minutes, when the mayor welcomed
him with much feeling, in the following
speech : —

" Sir, — The citizens of Boston welcome you
on your return to the United States ; mindful of
your early zeal in the cause of Amerrcan Inde-
pendence, grateful for your distinguished share
in the perils and glories of its achievements.
When, urged by a generous sympathy, you first
landed on these shores, you found a people en-
gaged in an arduous and eventful struggle for
liberty, with apparently inadequate means,
and amidst dubious omens. After a lapse of
nearly half a century, you find the same people
prosperous beyond all hope and all precedent ;

LiiFAYETTE. 267

♦heir liberty secure; sitting in its strength;
without fear and without reproach.

" In your youth you joined the standard of
three millions of people, raised in an unequal
and uncertain conflict. In your advanced age
you return and are met by ten millions of
people, their descendants, whose hearts throng
hither to greet your approach and rejoice in it.

" This is not the movement of a turbulent
populace, excited by the fresh laurels of some
recent conqueror ; it is a grave, moral, intellec-
tual impulse.

" A whole people in the enjoyment of free-
dom, as perfect as the condition of our nature
permits, recur with gratitude, increasing with
the daily increasing sense of their blessings, to
the memory of those, who, by their labors and
in their blood, laid the foundation of our lib-
erties.

*' Your name, sir, — the name of Lafayette,
is associated with the most perilous and most
glorious periods of our Revolution; — with the
imperishable names of Washington, and of that
numerous host of heroes which adorn the
proudest archives of American history, and are
engraven in indelible traces on the hearts of
the whole American people.

S68

HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

" Accept then, sir, in the sincere spirit in
which it is offered, this simple tribute to your
virtues.

" Again, sir, the citizens of Boston bid you
welcome to the cradle of American Indepen-
dence, and to scenes consecrated with the blood
shed by the earliest martyrs in its cause."

General Lafayette then rose in his carriage,
and in a most interesting manner replied as
follows : —

" The emotions of love and gratitude, which
I have been accustomed to feel on my entering
this city, have ever mingled with a sense of reli-
gious reverence for the cradle of American, and
let me hope it will hereafter be said, of univer-
sal liberty.

" What must be, sir, my feelings, at the
blessed moment, when, after so long an absence,
I find myself again surrounded by the good
citizens of Boston — where I am so affection-
ately, so honorably welcomed, not only by old
friends, but by several successive generations;
where I can witness the prosperity, the im-
mense improvements, that have been the just
reward of a noble struggle, virtuous morals, and
truly republican institutions.

" I beg you, Mr. Mayor, gentlemen of the

LAFAYETTE. 269

City Council, and all of you, beloved citizens
of Boston, to accept the respectful and warm
thanks of a heart which has for nearly half a
century been particularly devoted to your illus-
trious city."

The reply of the general was received with
new plaudits of the assembled people ; and
" Welcome, welcome, Lafayette ! friend of
Washington! friend of America! friend of
Liberty ! " was repeated again and again ; and
the heights of Dorchester and Roxbury echoed
with the joyful acclamation.

The procession was then formed, and passed
through Washington, Milk, Broad, State,
Court, and Tremont streets, to Boylston street,
adjoining the south part of the Common, in the
following order: — Three marshals, the Boston
corps of Light Dragoons, a battalion of Light
Infantry, composed of the Fusiliers, Boston
Light Infantry, \¥inslow Blues, Washington
Light Infantry, New England Guards, Rang-
ers, and City Guards ; and a fall band of
music. Then foUovv'-ed the chief marshal,
attended by aids ; members of the City Council,
Committee of Arrangements, the President of
the Common Council, and senior Alderman, all
in carriages. Here was placed another mar-
23^

270

HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

shal, immediately preceding the elegant ba-
rouche, drawn by four beautiful white horses,
in which rode the distinguished guest of the
city and of the nation, accompanied by the
mayor, with marshals also on either side. The
son and friend of Lafayette, and gentlemen
aldermen from New York, next followed in
carriages; and these were succeeded by the
Society of the Cincinnati, public characters,
judges and legislators, and distinguished stran-
gers, in carriages also. Immediately after,
two marshals; field and staff officers of the
militia, mounted on horseback, and followed
also by two marshals. The cavalcade of citi-
zens, of all ranks and in great numbers, with
marshals attending, closed the voluntary but
triumphant procession.

The dwelling-houses and stores on the
streets through which the procession was con-
ducted, were crowded with inhabitants in every
part. The ladies thus situated caught the en-
thusiasm of the occasion, waved their white
handkerchiefs, and with smiles and gladness,
greeted the veteran hero, who appeared affected
and delighted by these demonstrations of a joy-
ful welcome.

Excepting the cavalcade, the procession

LAFAYETTE. 271

passed tlirough the Common from Boylston to
Park street, on the eastern margin, and be-
tween two lines of children, of both sexes, be-
longing to the several schools in the city.
Their ages were from about eight to twelve,
and nearly three thousand in number. Their
dress was neat and uniform ; the misses in
white, and the masters in white pantaloons and
blue spencers. They also wore ribbons on
their breasts, stamped with a miniature likeness
of Lafayette. As the carriage in which the
general rode was passing, one of the misses
darted from the line where she was standing,
and requested to speak with him. She was
handed into the carriage, and by the mayor
presented to Lafayette, who pressed an affec-
tionate kiss on her bloomxing, yet blushing
cheek. She had confidence, however, to ad-
dress him, and place a wreath of flowers which
she held on his head. Fie made a short but
affectionate reply, and placed the v/reath on the
seat of the carriage. iVttached to the wreath
of flowers was a small piece of paper, carefully
folded, which contained these lines, said to be
composed by the mother of the child :

"An infant hand presents these blushing flowers,
Glowing and pure as childhood's artless hours,

272 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

"WTiere roses bloom, and buds of promise smile,
Repaying with their charms the cultmrer's toil.

Oh ! take them, father, they were culled for you!
(Still bright with warm affectmih sacred dew — )
O let them live in thy benig-nant smile.
And o'er thy brorv of glory bloom awhile !

Twined with the laurel Fame on thee bestowed,
"When thy young heart with patriot ardor glowed;
Self-exiled from the charms of wealth and love,
And home, m\d friends, thou didst our champion prove^
And, by the side of glorious AVashin&ton,
Didst make our grateful country all thine own !

Go, fragile offering, speak the ardent joy

Our bosoms feel, which time can ne'er destroy ! "

Arches were thrown across several of the
principal streets through which Lafayette was
conducted, covered with evergreens and flow-
ers, and containing appropriate mottos. There
were two in Washington street. On one of
these was very legibly ^\Titten, " 1776 — Wash-
ington and Lafayette. Welcome, Lafayette —
A Republic not ungrateful^ On the other, —

"Welcome, Lafayette."

'' The fathers in glory shall sleep,

Who gathered with thee to the fight j
But the sons will eternally keep
The tablet of gratitude bright.

LAFAYETTE. 273

We bow not the neck,

And we bend not the knee,
But our hearts, Lafayette,

We surrender to thee."

When the procession arrived at the steps of
the State House, near the head of Park street,
salutes were fired by a battalion of artillery, on
the eminence on the western part of the Com-
mon, and at the Navy Yard at Charlestown.
Salutes were also fired by a battalion of artil-
lery, placed on the heights of Dorchester, (now
South Boston,) when General Lafayette reached
the line of the city, at eleven o'clock.

The Governor and Executive Council of the
Commonwealth were assembled in the spacious
Senate Chamber to receive Lafayette in the
name of the representatives of the people, and
in pursuance of their resolve of June preceding,
as well as in accordance with their own per-
sonal feelings and wishes. His Excellency the
Governor here addressed him with great feei-
ing,=^ in the following concise and pertinent
speech : —

* Governor Eustis was so affected that he had to
call on one of his aids to read a greater part of the
address.

274 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

" Sir, our Friend, — In the name of iho
government, and in behalf of the citizens of Mas-
sachusetts, I have the honor to greet you with
a cordial and affectionate welcome.

" We thank God that he has been pleased to
preserve you through the scenes of peril and
of suffering which have distinguished your
patriotic and eventful life, and that we are in-
dulged with this occasion of renewing to you
our grateful acknowledgments for the impor-
tant services which you have rendered to our
common country.

" In the last surviving major-general of the
American revolutionary army we recognize a
benefactor and friend, from a distant and gal-
lant nation ; who, inspired by love of liberty,
subjected himself in his youth to the toils and
hazards of a military life, in support of our
rights. Under our illustrious Washington,
you were instrumental in establishing the lib-
erties of our country, while your gallantry in
the field secured to yourself an imperishable
renown.

" With the enjoyment of the blessings of in-
dependence, we shall never cease to associate
the name of Lafayette, and our prayer to
Heaven will be for his health and prosperity,"

J

LAFAYETTE* 275

To which the general, with much animation,
replied : —

*' Sir, — When, in the name of the people
and government of this state, your excellency is
pleased so kindly to welcome an American
veteran,! am proud to share the enjoyments of
such a reception with my revolutionary com-
panions and brother soldiers. Sir, I am de-
lighted with what I see, I am oppressed with
what I feel ; but I depend upon you, as an old
friend, to do justice to my sentiments."

Afterwards, a great number of gentlemen
were introduced to Lafayette, in the Senate
Chamber; of whom were the judges and other
public officers of the United States, of the state
and of the city; members of the Society of
Cincinnati, with their venerable and distin-
guished president, Honorable John Brooks, late
Governor of the Commonwealth. Lafayette
recognized his old military and personal friend
at the first sight, and embraced him with great
cordiality and affection. Some other veterans
of the revolutionary army, who were present,
he also recollected, and discovered strong emo-
tions as they approached him and took his
hand. Indeed, he was so eager to meet them,
that he very generally first seized them< and

276 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

clung to them with all the affection of a brother.
The scene was inexpressibly affecting. There
was not a heart untouched — not a cheek un-
moistened by the falling tear. To weep then
was not weakness; it was proof of gratitude
and of a generous feeling, which is an honor to
human nature.

By particular request, and to gratify the
wishes of the people collected in front of the
State House, General Lafayette appeared in
the colonnade of this superb edifice, where he
was greeted with loud and continued cheers.
He was then conducted by the committee of
arrangements to the residence provided for him
at the head of Park street. A public dinner
was given by the city authorities, in honor of
their noble guest ; and the invitation was ex-
tended to senators and members of congress,
the governor and ex-governor of the Common-
wealth, judicial, and other public characters.

While in Boston, invitations flowed in, and
hospitalities were tendered to him, from all parts
of New England. The general, ever anxious
to please and gratify the people in all sections
of the United States, improved his earliest con-
venience to visit in course most of the principal
cities and towns in the New England States,

r

LAFAYETTE. 277

closing his first Eastern tour the 1st of Septem-
ber, at Hartford, where he embarked on board
a magnificently decorated steamboat which
floated tranquilly over the sound, and landed
him again safely at New York, amid the wel-
coming shouts of the united voices of the citi-
zens of the empire city of the Union.

After another short visit in New York, La-
fayette again left by steamboat up the Hudson,
for West Point, Albany, and intermediate
places, at which points it is deemed unneces-
sary to state that impatient thousands waited to
welcome the nation's guest.

The general made but a short stay at the
places above named, when he again returned
down the Hudson to New York, where he ar-
rived safely at Courtlandt-street wharf. Lafay-
ette was here again literally overwhelmed with
hospitalities tendered from all quarters, and at
almost every step the welkin rang with
"cheers" and "welcomes" which testified to
him how dear he was in the hearts of a nation
of freemen.

The general again rested himself a few days,

on this his third visit at New York, after which

he left on his triumphal march through New

Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland,

24

278 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

on to the city of Washington, — the seat of thai
government for which his youthful heart had
inspired him to do so much, in assisting to lay
Its corner-stone.

Lafayette was escorted into the capitol, passed
through the rotunda, and entered the Tent of
Washington. Here he was met by the mayor,
and other authorities, officers, clergy, &c., &c.
In the course of his reply to an address from
the mayor, full of fine feeling, the general
said: —

" Among the circumstances of my life to
which you have been pleased to allude, none
can afford me such dear recollections as my
having been early adopted as an American
soldier ; so there is not a circumstance of my
reception in which I take so much pride, as in
sharing those honors with my beloved com-
panions in arms.

"Happy I am to feel that the marks of affec-
tion and esteem bestowed on me, bear testi-
mony to my perseverance in the American
principles I received under the tent of Wash-
ington, and of which I shall, to my latest breath,
prove myself a devoted disciple.

" I beg you, Mr. Mayor, and the gentlemen
" of the Corporation, to accept my respectful ac*

LAFAYETTE. 279

knowledgements to you and to the citizens of
Washington."

After the customary introductions, the gen-
eral, accompanied by the mayor, and attended
by General Brown, and Commodore Tingey,
proceeded to the President's house, where the
President advanced to him, and gave him a
cordial and affectionate reception.

The interview was a most impressive one,
surrounded as he was by all the members of
the cabinet, and a large number of the officers
of the army and navy, who waited to welcome
one of the nation's benefactors.

It rarely happens that official robes and mil-
itary armor find a more fitting occasion for dis-
play. It is meet they should bow to disinter-
ested benevolence.

After a few minutes of interchange of cour-
tesies, the general took his leave, and retired to
his quarters at Gadsby's hotel.

Lafayette passed two or three days in Wash-
ington, visiting President Monroe again, as also
the Secretaries of State, of the Treasury, and
of War, and Major-General Brown of the United
States Army.

On Thursday, the 15th of October, the gen-
eral rode over to Georgetown, and Friday, by.

ZC«J HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

invitation, he visited the Navy Yard, and on
Saturday proceeded on his visit to Alexandria
and Yorktown. At Alexandria, he was re-
ceived by the mayor, the Common Council, his
brother masons and others. In the evening,
the public buildings and many private houses
were brilliantly illuminated. On the Sabbath,
General Lafayette proceeded to Mount Vernon,
and visited the tomb of Washington, his revered
father and friend. While here, he was pre-
sented, by Mr. Ctistis, with a ring containing a
portion of the hair of the sainted hero, together
with the masonic sash and jewel formerly be-
longing to the great mason. In the course of
a very eloquent address to the general on this
occasion, Mr. Custis said : " Our fathers wit-
nessed the dawn of your glory, partook of its
meridian splendor; and oh, let their children
enjoy the benign radiance of your setting sun.
And when it shall sink in the horizon of na-
ture, here, here^ with pious duty, we will form
yoar sepulchre ; and, united in death as in life,
by the side of the great chief you will rest in
peace, till the last trump awakes the slumbering
world, and calls your virtues to their great re-
ward.

"The joyous shouts of millions of freemen

LAFAYETTE. 281

hailed your returning foot-print on our sands.
The arms of millions are opened wide to take
you to their grateful hearts ; and the prayers of
mi-llions ascend to the throne of the Eternal,
that the choicest blessings of Heaven may cheer
the latest days of Lafayette."

General Lafliyette, after the sublime scenes
at Washington and vicinity, proceeded down
the Potomac, by special invitation, to visit York-
town, Williamsburg, Norfolk, Petersburg and
Richmond. The general left Richmond, No-
vember 2d, on a visit to his illustrious friend,
Mr. Jefferson, and arrived at Monticello on
Thursday, November 4th, when he was received
by Mr. Jefferson, in a most feeling manner.
They flew into each other's arms by a most
cordial impulse, and remained locked in silent
embrace for several minutes before their feel-
ings could find utterance.

Lafayette passed a week at Monticello, to
enjoy the repose of that beautiful seat, under
the courteous hospitalities of his beloved friend,
Jefferson.

From here the general left, with regret,
on his return to Washington, where he ar-
rived on Tuesday, the 23d day of November.
While here, a vote of the Senate was passed,
24=^

282 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

inviting him to take a seat as one of their body,
to which he consented, and on entering the
Senate Chamber, he was received with that
august body standing.

During his stay in Washington at this time,
a bill passed both houses of Congress, granting
the general 200,000 dollars, and an entire
township of land, to be located on any of the
public lands that remain unsold.

General Lafayette commenced his tour from
Washington through the Southern and West-
ern States, about the 1st of March. In his
course, he visited the principal towns in the
States of North and South Carolina, Georgia,
Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee,
Missouri, Kentucky, Illinois and Ohio.

He visited Pittsburg, and returned to Albany
by way of Buffalo. From Albany he proceeded
directly to Boston, where he arrived on the 16th
of June.

The compiler regrets that the limits of this
work will not permit him to give a detailed ac-
count of this whole great tour; suffice it to
say that the same military parades, civic feasts,
cordial and affectionate addresses, triumphal
arches and soldiers' tears, greeted Lafayette

LAFAYETTE. 283

throughout a distance of more than 4000
miles.

These were not the momentary triumphs of
a conqueror, fresh from the field of carnage,
with blood-stained armor, and the echoing air
of the stirring drum-beat ; but the spontaneous
outpouring of the hearts of other generations,
who rise up to bless the patriot hero and bene-
factor of their country, who took their fathers
by the hand, and was ready to lay down his
life for their sake, and when he had given
them an exalted rank among the nations of the
earth, laid his laurels at their feet, and left
them to the enjoyments of freedom, happiness
and honor.

More than 3000 miles of the western tour
of Lafayette was a pathless wilderness at the
close of the revolution ; now they can boast of
nearly a dozen states, dotted all over with a
free, virtuous, and intelligent population.

The sublime realities of this whole scene,
when taken collectively, surpass the powers
of pen or pencil. Altogether, it combines to
make the history of Lafayette the most remark-
able, save that of Washington, on record.

Time cannot dim the recollection of, or the

284 HEROES OF THE REVOLUTION.

vast obligation to which we are under to, the
great patriot, Lafayette.

After the general had made a complete tour
through the United States, being received
everywhere with the highest marks of grati-
tude which a free people could bestow, he
sailed again for his native country, on the 7th
of September, 1825, in a ship fitted out by gov-
ernment for that purpose, and called the Bran-
dywine, in honor of his bravery in that memor-
able battle. He had a pleasant voyage, and
arrived again in safety, the following month,
in his own dear France ; when he retired to
the sweet fields of La Grange, where, during
the agricultural months, he spent his time in
directing the labors of his farm.

Lafayette passed the winters in Paris, and,
during his stay there, in 1834, in riding for
exercise, he exposed himself too much to the
sudden changes of atmosphere, by which he
took a sudden cold, and through which disease
gave strong battle with the aged hero. Doc^
tor Giron, with other eminent physicians,
did all that the profession could do, but the
aged general had not constitution enough to
bear him through. He lingered along a few
weeks, without much apparent suffering,

LAFAYETTK. 285

when his eyes turned upwards from a world
for which he had done so much, to the gates
of that heavenly heritage, the glory and enjoy-
ments of which we trust he is in full partici-
pation.

Thus set the sun of one of the most remark-
able heroes of modern times.

DFXiARATION OF INBEPMDENCK

When, in the course of human events, it
becomes necessary for one people to dissolve
the political bands which have connected thenri
with another, and to assume, among the powers
of the earth, the separate and equal station to
which the laws of nature and of nature's God
entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions
of mankind requires that they should declare
the causes w^hich impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident : that
all men are created equal ; that they are en-
dowed by their Creator with certain unaliena-
ble rights ; that among these are life, liberty,
and the pursuit of happiness ; that, to secure
these rights, governments are instituted among
men, deriving their just powers from the con-
sent of the governed ; and that, whenever any
form of government becomes destructive of
these ends, it is the right of the people to alter
or abolish it, and to institute new government,

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE. 287

laying its foundations on such principles, and
organizing its powers in such form, as to them
shall seem most likely to effect their safety and
happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that
governments long established should not be
changed for light and transient causes ; and,
accordingly, all experience hath shown that
mankind are more disposed to suffer, while
evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by
abolishing the forms to which they are accus-
tomed. But when a long train of abuses and
usurpations, pursuing invariably the same ob-
ject, evinces a design to reduce them under
absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their
duty, to throw off such government, and to
provide new guards for their future security.
Such has been the patient sufferance of the
colonies, and such is now the necessity which
constrains them to alter their former systems of
government. The history of the present king
of Great Britain is a history of repeated inju-
ries and usurpations, all having in direct object
the establishment of an absolute tyranny over
these states. To prove this, let facts be sub-
mitted to a candid world.

He has refused his assent to laws the most
wholesome and necessary for the public good.

I

238 DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE.

He has forbidden his governors to pass laws,
of immediate and pressing importance, unless
suspended in their operations till his assent
should be obtained ; and, when so suspended,
he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other laws for the ac-
commodation of large districts of people, unless
those people would relinquish the right of
representation in the legislature — a right
inestimable to them, and formidable to tyrants
only.

He has called together legislative bodies at
places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from
the repository of their public records, for the
sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance
with his measures.

He has dissolved representative houses re-
peatedly, for opposing, with manly firmness,
his invasions on the rights of the people.

He has refused, for a long time after such
dissolutions, to cause others to be elected ;
whereby the legislative powers, incapable of
annihilation, have returned to the people at
large for their exercise ; the state remaining, in
the mean time, exposed to all the dangers of
invasion from without and convulsions within.

He has endeavored to prevent the popalaticm

DECLARAtlON OF INDEPENDENCE. 289

of these states ; for that purpose obstructing the
laws of naturalization of foreigners, refusing to
pass others to encourage their migration thither>
and raising the conditions of new appropriations
of lands.

He has obstructed the administration of jus-
tice, by refusing his assent to laws for estab*
lishing judiciary powers.

He has made judges dependenc on his will
alone, for the tenure of their ofHces, and the
amount and payment of their salaries.

He has erected a multitude of new officesj
and sent hither swarms of officers to harass our
people, and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in time of peace,
standing armies, without the consent of our
legislatures.

He has affected to render the military inde-
pendent of, and superior to, the civil power.

He has combined with others to subject us
to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and
unacknowledged by our laws ; giving his assent
to their acts of pretended legislation.

For quartering large bodies of armed troops
among us ;

For protecting them, by a mock trial, from
25

290 DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE.

punishment for any murders which they shoula
commit on the inhabitants of these states ;

For cutting off our trade with all parts of the
world ;

For imposing taxes on us without our con-
sent;

For depriving us, in many cases, of the ben-
efit of trial by jury.

For transporting us beyond seas to be tried
for pretended offences :

For abolishing the free system of English
laws in a neighboring province, establishing
therein an arbitrary government, and enlarging
its boundaries so as to render it at once an ex-
ample and fit instrument for introducing the
same absolute rule into these colonies ;

For taking away our charters, abolishing our
most valuable laws, and altering, fundamentally,
the forms of our governments ;

For suspending our own legislatures, and
declaring themselves invested with power to
legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated government here by de-
claring us out of his protection, and waging war
against us.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE. 291

coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives
of our people.

He is, at this time, transporting large armies
of foreign mercenaries to complete the works of
death, desolation, and tyranny, with circum-
stances of cruelty and perfidy scarcely paral-
leled in the most barbarous ages, and totally
unworthy the head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow-citizens, taken
captive on the high seas, to bear arms against
their country, to become the executioners of
their friends and brethren, or to fall themselves
by their hands.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst
us, and has endeavored to bring on the in-
habitants of our frontiers the merciless Indian
savages, whose known rule of warfare is an
undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes,
and conditions.

In every stage of these oppressions, we have
petitioned for redress in the most humble terms.
Our repeated petitions have been answered only
by repeated injury. A prince, whose character
is thus marked by every act which may de-
fine a tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free
people.

Nor have we been wanting in attentions

292 DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE.

to our British brethren. We have warned
them, from time to time, of the attempts, by
their legislature, to extend an unwarrantable
jurisdiciion over us. We have reminded them
of the circumstances of our emigration and set-
tlement here. We have appealed to their
native justice and magnanimity, and we have
conjured them, by the ties of our common kin-
dred, to disavow these usurpations, which would
inevitably interrupt our connections and corre-
spondence. They, too, have been deaf to the
voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must,
therefore, acquiesce in the necessity which de-
nounces our separation, and hold them, as we
hold the rest of mankind, enemies in war, in
peace, friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the
United States of America, in General Congress
os.-sembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of
the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do,
in the name and bj'' th? authority of the good
people of these colonies, solemnly publish and
declare that these United Colonies are, and of
right ought to be, free and independent states ;
that they are absolved from all allegiance to the
British crown, and that all political connection
Detween them and the state of Great Britain is,

U

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE.

293

and ought to be, totally dissolved ; and that, as
free and independent states, they have . full
power to levy war, conclude peace, contract
alliances, establish commerce, and do all other
acts and things which independent states may
of right do. And, for the support of this dec-
laration, with a firm reliance on the protection
of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to
each other our lives, our fortunes, and our
sacred honor.

The foregoing declaration was, by order of
Congress, engrossed, and signed by the follow-
ing members : —

JOHN HANCOCK.

New Hampshire.
JOSIAH BARTLETT,
WILLIAM WHIPPLE,
MATTHEW THORNTON.

Massachusetts.
SAMUEL ADAMS,
JOHN ADAMS,
ROBERT TREAT PAINE,
ELBRIDGE GERRY.
Rhode Island.
STEPHEN HOPKINS,
WILLIAM ELLERY.

Connecticut.
ROGER SHERMAN,
SAMUEL HUNTINGTON,
WILLIAM WILLIAMS,

OLIVER WOLCOTT.

NeiD York.
WILLIAM FLOYD,
PHILIP LIVINGSTON.
FRANCIS LEWIS,
LEWIS MORRIS.

New Jersey.
RICHARD STOCKTON,
JOHN WITHERSPOON,
FRANCIS HOPKINSON,
JOHN HART,
ABRAHAM CLARK.
Pennsylvania.
ROBERT MORRIS,
BENJAMIN RUSH,
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.

25^

294 DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE.

JOHN MORTON,
GKOKGE CLYMER,
JAIMES SMITH,
GEORGE TAYLOR,
JAMES WILSON,
GEORGE ROSS.
Delairare.

cj::sar rodney,
geokge reap,
thomas m'kean.

Maryland.
SAiMUEL CHASE,
WILLIAM PACA,
THOMAS STONE,
CHARLES CARROLL, of Car-
roUion.
Virginia.
CiEORGE WYTHE,
lllCHARD HENRY LEE,

THOMAS JEFFERSON,
BENJAMIN HARRISON,
THOMAS NELSON, Jr.,
FRANCIS LIGHTFOOT LEE
CARTER BRAXTON.

North Carolina.
WILLIAM HOOPER,
JOSEPH HEWES,
JOHN FENN.

South Carolina.
EDWARD RUTLEDGE,
THOMAS HEYWARD, Ja.
THOMAS LYNCH. Jr.
ARTHUR MIDDLETON. *

Georgia.
BUTTON GWINNETT,
LYMAN HALL,
GEORGE WALTON.

CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES.

We^ the People of the United States, in order
to form a more perfect union, establish jus-
tice, insure domestic tranquillity, provide for
the common defence, promote the general
welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty
to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain
and establish this Constit7ition for the United'
States of America.

ARTICLE I.

Sect. I.^ — All legislative powers herein
g'ranled shall be vested in a Congress of the
United States, which shall consist of a Senate
and House of Representatives.

Sect. II. — 1. The House of Representa-
tives shall be composed of members chosen
every second year, by the people of the several
states ; and the electors in each state shall have
the qualifications requisite for electors of the
most numerous branch of the state legislature.

296 CONSTITUTION.

2. No person shall be a representative who
shall not have attained the age of twenty-five
years, and been seven years a citizen of the
United States, and who shall not, when elected,
be an inhabitant of the state in which he shall
be chosen.

3. Representatives and direct taxes shall be
apportioned among the several states which may
be included witliin this Union, according to
their respective numbers, which shall be deter-
mined by adding to the whole number of free
persons, including those bound to service for a
term of years, and excluding Indians not taxed,
three fifths of all other persons. The actual
enumeration shall be made within three years
after the first meeting of the Congress of the
United States, and within every subsequent
term of ten years, in such manner its they shall
by law direct. The number of representatives
shall not exceed one for every thirty thousand,
but each state shall have at least one represen-
tative ; and until such enumeration shall be
made, the state of Neio Hampshire shall be en-
titled to choose three; Massachusetts, eight;
Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, one ;
Connecticut, five ; New York, six ; New Jersey,
four ; Pennsylvania, eight ; Delawire, one ;

CONSTITUTION. 297

]\TaryIa?id, six ; Virginia, ten ; North Carolina,
five ; Sozith Caroliria, five ; Georgia, three.

4. Wlien vacancies happen in the representa-
tion from any state, the executive authority
thereof shall issue writs of election to fill such
vacancies.

5. The House of Representatives shall choose
their speaker and other officers, and shall have
the sole power of impeachment.

Sect. III. — 1. The Senate of the United
States shall be composed of two senators from
each state, chosen by the legislature thereof, for
six years; and each senator shall have one
vote.

2. Immediately after they shall be assembled
in consequence of the first election, they shall
be divided, as equally as may be, into three
classes. The seats of the senators of the first
class shall be vacated at the expiration of the
second year, of the second class at the expira-
tion of the fourth year, and the third class at
the expiration of the sixth year, so that one
third may be chosen every second year; and if
vacancies happen by resignation or otherwise,
during the recess of the legislature of any
state, the executive thereof may make tempo-
rary appointments until the next meeting of the

298 CONSTITUTION.

legislature, which shall then fill such vacan-
cies.

3. No person shall be a senator who shall
not have attained the age of thirty years, and
been nine years a citizen of the United States,
and who shall not, when elected, be an inhabi-
tant of that state for which he shall be chosen.

4. The Vice-President of the United States
shall be President of the Senate, but shall have
no vote unless they be equally divided.

5. The Senate shall choose their other offi-
cers, and also a president pro tempore in the
absence of the Vice-President, or when he
shall exercise the office of President of the
United States.

6. The Senate shall have the sole power to
try all impeachments. When sitting for that
purpose, they shall be on oath or affirmation.
When the President of the United States is
tried, the Chief Justice shall preside ; and no
person shall be convicted without the concur
rence of two thirds of the members present.

7. Judgment, in cases of impeachment, shall
not extend further than to removal from office,
and disqualification to hold and enjoy any office
of honor, trust, or profit under the United
States ; but the party convicted shall, neverthe-

CONSTITUTION. 299

less, be liable and subject to mdictment, trial,
judgment and punishment according to law.

Sect. IV. — 1. The times, places, and man-
ner of holding elections for senators and repre-
sentatives shall be prescribed in each state by
the legislature thereof; but the Congress may,
at any time, by law, make or alter such regula-
tions, except as to the places of choosing sena*
ators.

2. The Congress shall assemble at least
once in every year : and such meeting shall be
on the first Monday in December, unless they
shall by law appoint a different day.

Sect. V. — 1. Each house shall be judge
of the elections, returns, and qualifications of
its own members ; and a majority of each shall
constitute a quorum to do business ; but a
smaller number may adjourn from day to day,
and may be authorized to compel the attend*
ance of absent members, in such manner, and
under such penalties, as each house may pro-
vide.

2. Each house may determine the rules of
its proceedings, punish its members for disor-
derly behavior, and, with the concurrence of
two thirds, expel a member.

3. Each house shall keep a journal of its

300 CONSTITUTION.

proceedings, and from time to time publish the
same, excepting such parts as may, in their
judgment, require secrecy; and the yeas and
nays of the members of either house on any
question shall, at the desire of one fifth of those
present, be entered on the journal.

4. Neither house, during the session of Con*
gress, shall, without the consent of the other,
adjourn for more than three .days, nor to any
other place than that in which the two houses
shall be sitting.

Sect. VI. — 1. The senators and representa-
tives shall receive a compensation for their
services, to be ascertained by law, and paid
out of the treasury of the United States. They
shall, in all cases, except treason, felony, and
breach of the peace, be privileged from arrest,
during their attendance at the session of their
respective houses, and in going to, or returning
from the same ; and for any speech or debate
in either house, they shall not be questioned in
any other place.

2. No senator or representative shall, during
the time for which he was elected, be appointed
to any civil office under the authority of the
United States, which shall have been created,
or the emoluments whereof shall have been in-

CONSTITUTION. 301

creased, during such time ; and no person
holding any office under the United States,
shall be a member of either house, during his
continuance in office.

Sect. VII. — 1. All bills for raising reve-
nue shall originate in the House of Representa-
tives ; but the Senate may propose or concur
with amendments, as on other bills.

2. Every bill, which shall have passed the
House of Representatives and the Senate, shall,
before it become a law, be presented to the
President of the United States; if he approve,
he shall sign it ; but if not, he shall return it,
with his objections, to that house in which it
shall have originated, who shall enter the ob-
jections at large on their journal, and proceed
to reconsider it. If, after such reconsideraiion,
two thirds of that house shall agree to pass the
bill, it shall be sent, together with the objec-
tions, to the other house, and if approved by
two thirds of that house, it shall become a law.
But in all such cases, the votes of both houses
shall be determined by yeas and nays ; and the
names of the persons voting for and against the
bill shall be entered on the journals of each
house respectively. If any bill shall not be
Tcturned by the President within ten days
26

302 CONSTITUTION.

(Sundays excepted) after it shall have been
presented to him, the same shall be a law, in
like manner as if he had signed it, unless Con-
gress, by their adjournment, prevent its return;
in which case it shall not be a law.

3. Every order, resolution, or vote to which
the concurrence of the Senate and House of
Representatives may be necessary, (except on a
question of adjournment,) shall be presented to
the President of the United States; and before
the same shall take effect, shall be approved by
him, or being disapproved by him, shall be re*
passed by two thirds of the Senate and House
of Representatives, according to the rules and
limitations prescribed in the case of a bill.

Sect. VUI. — The Congress shall have
power —

1. To lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts,
and excises ; to pay the debts and provide for
the common defence and general welfare of the
United States ; but all duties, imposts and ex-
cises shall be uniform throughout the United
States :

2. To borrow money on the credit of the
United States :

3. To regulate commerce with foreign na»

:- J

CONSTITUTION. 303

tions and among the several states, and with
Indian tribes :

4. To establish a uniform rule of naturaliza-
tion, and uniform laws on the subject of bank-
ruptcies, throughout the United States :

5. To coin money, regulate the value thereof,
and of foreign coin, and fix the standard of
weights and measures :

6. To provide for the punishment of coun-
terfeiting the securities and current coin of the
United States :

7. To establish post offices and post roads :
S. To promote the progress of science and

useful arts, by securing for limited times, to
authors and inventors, the exclusive right to their
respective writings and discoveries :

9. To constitute tribunals inferior to the
supreme court:

10. To define and punish piracies and fel-
onies committed on the high seas, and offences
against the law of nations :

11. To declare war, grant letters of marque
and reprisal, and make rules concerning cap-
tures on land and water :

12. To raise and support armies; but no
appropriation of money to that use shall be for
a longer term than two years :

304 COXSTITFTION.

13. To provide and maintain a na\T •

14. To make rules for the government and
regulation of the land and naval forces :

15. To provide for calling forth the militia
to execute the laws of the Union, suppress in-
surrections, and repel invasions:.

18. To provide for organizing, arming, and
disciplining the militia, and for governing such
pnrt of them as may he employed in the ser-
vice of the United States, reserving to the states
respectively the appointment of the officers, and
the authority of training the militia, according
to the discipline prescribed by Congress:

17. To exercise exclusive legislation, in all
cases whatsoever, over such district (not exceed-
ing ten miles square) as may, by cession of par-
ticular states, and the acceptance of Congi-ess,
become the seat of government of the Uniied
States, and to exercise like authority over all
places purchased by the consent of the legisla-
ture of the state in which the same shall be, for
the erection of forts, magazines, arsenals, dock-
yards, and other needful buildings: And,

IS. To make all laws which shall be neces-
sary and proper for carrying into execution the
foregoing powers, and all other powers vested
by this constitution in the government of the

CONSTITUTION. 305

United States, or in any deparbment or officer
thereof.

Sect. IX. — 1. The migration or importation
of SQch persons as any of the states now exist-
ing shall think proper to admit, shall not be
prohibited by the Congress prior to the year
one thousand eight hundred and eight; but a
tax or duty may be imposed on such impor-
tation, not exceeding ten dollars for each per-
son.

2. The privilege of the writ of habeas corpus
shall not be suspended, unless when, .in cases
of rebelhon or invasion, the public safety may
require it.

3. No bill of attainder, or ex post facto law,
shall be passed.

4. No capitation or other direct tax shall be
laid, unless in proportion to the census or enu-
meration herein before directed to be taken.

5. No tax or duty shall be laid on articles
exported from any state. No preference shall
be given, by any regulation of commerce or
revenue, to the ports of one state over those of
another ; nor shall vessels bound to or from one
state be obliged to enter, clear, or pay duties in
another.

6. No money shall be drawn from the trea-

26^

30^

CONSTITUTION.

^ury, but in consequence of appropriations made
by law ; and a regular statement and nccount of
the receipts and expenditures of all public money
shall be published from time to time.

7. No title of nobility shall be granted by
the United States; and no person holding any
office of profit or trust under them, shall, with-
out the consent of the Congress, accept of any
present, emolument, office, or title of any kind
whatever, from any king, prince or foreign
state.

Sect.' X. — 1. No state shall enter into any
treaty, alliance, or confederation ; grant letters
of marque and reprisal ; coin money; emit bills
of credit; make anything but gold and silver
coin a tender in payment of debts ; pass any
bill of attainder, ex post facto law, or law im-
pairing the obligation of contracts ; or grant any
title of nobility.

2. No state shall, without the consent of
Congress, lay any imposts or duties on imports
or exports, except what may be absolutely
necessary for executing its inspection laws;
and the net produce of all duties and imposts
laid by any state on imports or exports, shall be
for the use of the treasury of the United States ;
and all such laws shall be subject to the revision

COJfSTIttJTION. 307

and control of the Congress. No state shall,
without the consent of Congress, lay any duty
on tonnage, keep troops or ships of war in time
of peace, enter into any agreement or compact
with another state or with a foreign power, or
engage in war, unless actually invaded, or in
such imminent danger as will not admit of
delay.

ARTICLE II.

Sect. I. — 1. The executive power shall be
vested in a President of the United States of
America. He shall hold his office during the
term of four years, and, together with the
Vice-President, chosen for the same term, be
elected as follows:

2. Each state shall appoint, in such manner
as the legislature thereof may direct, a number
of electors, equal to the whole number of sena-
tors and representatives to which the state may
be entitled in the Congress ; but no senator or
representative, or person holding an office of
trust or profit under the United Slates, shall be
appointed an elector.

3. [Annulled. See Amendments, art. 12.]

4. The Congress nriay determine the time
of choosing the electors, and the day on which

308 CONSTITUTION.

they shall give their votes ; which day shall be
the same throughout the United States.

5. No person, except a natural-born citizen,
or a citizen of the United States at the time of
the adoption of this constitution, shall be eligi-
ble to the office of President ; neither shall any
person be eligible to that office, who shall not
have attained the age of thirty-five years, and
been fourteen years a resident within the United
States.

6. In case of the removal of the President
from office, or of his death, resignation, or ina-
bility to discharge the powers and duties of
said office, the same shall devolve on the Vice-
President ; and the Congress may by law pro-
vide for the case of removal, death, resignation,
or inability, both of the President and Vice-
President, declaring what officer shall then act
as President, and such officer shall act accord-
ingly, until the disability be removed, or a
President shall be elected.

7. The President shall, at stated times, re-
ceive for his services a compensation which
shall neither be increased nor diminished during
the period for which he shall have been elec-
ted ; and he shall not receive within that per'od,

CONSTITUTION. 309

any other emolument from the United States, or
any of ihem.

S.' Before he enter on the execution of his
office, he shall take the following oath or afHr-
niation : —

" I do solemnly swear, (or affirm) that I will
fjiithfully execute the office of President of the
United States, and will, to the best of my abil-
ity, preserve, protect and defend the constitu-
tion of the United States."

Sect. II. — 1. The President shall be com-
mander-in-chief of the army and navy of the
United States, and of the militia of the sev-
eral states, when called into the actual service
of the United States : he may require the opin-
ion, in writing, of the principal officer in each
of the executive departments, upon any subject
relating to the duties of their respective offices ;
and he shall have power to grant reprieves and
pardons for offences against the United States,
except in cases of impeachment.

2. He shall have power, by and with the ad-
vice and consent of the Senate, to make treaties,
provided two thirds of the senators present con-
cur ; and he shall nominate, and by and with the
advice and consent of the Senate, shall appoint
ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls,

310 CONSTITUTION.

judges of the supreme court, and all other offi-
cers of the United States, whose appointments
r.re not herein otherwise provided for, and which
.-^hall be established by law. But the Congress
rnay, by law, vest the appointment of such infe-
rior officers as they think proper in the Presi-
dent alone, in the courts of law, or in the heads
of departments.

3. The President shall have power to fill up
all vacancies that may happen during the re-
cess of the Senate, by granting commissions,
which shall expire at the end of their next ses-
sion.

Sect. III. — He shall, from time to time,
give to the Congress information of the state of
the Union, and recommend to their considera-
tion such measures as he shall judge necessary
and expedient ; he may, on extraordinary occa-
sions, convene both houses, or either of them,
and in case of disagreement between them with
respect to the time of adjournment, he may
adjourn them to such time as he shall think
proper ; he shall receive ambassadors, and other
public ministers; he shall take care that the
laws be faithfully executed ; and shall commis-
sion all the officers of the United States.

Sect. IV. — The President, Vice-President,

CONSTITUTION. 311

and all civil officers of the United States, shall
be removed from office on impeachment for,
and conviction of, treason, bribery, or other
high crimes and misdemeanors.

ARTICLE III.

Sect. I. — The judicial power of the United
States shall be vested in one supreme court,
and in such inferior courts as the Congress may,
from time to time, ordain and establish. The
judges, both of the supreme and inferior courts,
shall hold their offices during good behavior,
and shall, at stated times, receive for their ser-
vices a compensation which shall not be dimin-
ished during their continuance in office.

Sect. II. — 1. The judicial power shall extend
to all cases in law and equity arising under this
constitution, the laws of the United States, and
treaties made, or which shall be made, under
their authority ; to all cases affecting ambassa-
dors, and other public ministers and consuls ;
to all cases of admiralty and maritime jurisdic-
tion ; to controversies to which the United
States shall be a party; to controversies be-
tween two or more states ; between a state and
citizens of another state ; between citizens of
different states ; between citizens of the same

212 COls'STiTUTlOK.

state claiming lands under grants of different
states, and between a state, or the citizens
thereof, and foreign states, citizens, or subjects.

2. In all cases affecting ambassadors, other
public ministers and consuls, and those in which
a state shall be a party, the supreme court. shall
have original jurisdiction. In all other cases
before mentioned, the supreme court shall have
Dppellate jurisdiction, both as to law and fact,
with such exceptions, and under such regula-
tions, as the Congress shall make.

3. The trial of all crimes, except in cases of
impeachment, shall be by jnry ; and such trial
shall be held in the state where the said crimes
shall have been committed ; but when not com-
mitted within any state, the trial shall be at
such a place or places as the Congress may by
law have directed.

Skct. III. — 1. Treason against the United
States shall consist only in levying war againpt
them, or in adhering to their enemies, giving
them aid and comfort. No person shall bo
convicted of treason, unless on the testimony
of two witnesses to the same overt act, or con-
fessions in open court.

2. The Congress shall have power to de-
clare the punishment of treason ; but no attain-

CONSTITUTION* 313

der of treason shall work corruption of blood, or
forfeiture, except during the life of the person
attainted.

ARTICLE IV.

Sect. I — Full faith and credit shall be given
in each state to the public acts^ records, and
judicial proceedings of every other state. And
the Congress may, by general laws, prescribe
the manner in which such acts, records, and
proceedings shall be proved, and the effect
thereof.

Sect. II. — 1. The citizens of each state
shall be entitled to all privileges and immunities
of citizens in the several states.

2. A person charged in any state vi^iih trea-
son, felony, or other crime, who shall flee from
justice, and be found in another state, shall,
on demand of the executive authority of the
state from which he fled, be delivered up to be
removed to the state having jurisdiction of the
crime.

3. No person held to service or labor in one
state, under the laws thereof, escaping into
another, shall, in consequence of any law or
regulation therein, be discharged from such
service or labor, but shall be delivered up on

27

314' CONSTITUTION.

claim of the party to whom such service or laboi
may be due.

Sect. III. — 1. New states may be admitted
by the Congress into this Union ; but no new
state shall be formed of erected within the juris-
diction of any other state; nor any state be
formed by the junction of two or more states, or
parts of states, without the consent of the legis-
lature of the states concerned, as well as of the
Congress.

2. The Congress shall have power to dis-
posed of and make all needful rules and regula-
tions respecting the territory or other property
belonging to the United States ; and nothing in
this constitution shall be so construed as to
prejudice any claims of the United States, or of
any particular state.

Sect. IV. — The United States shall guar-
anty to every state of this Union a republican
form of government, and shall protect each of
them against invasion, and, on application of
the legislature, or of the executive, (when the
legislature cannot be convened,) against domes-
tic violence.

ARTICLE V.

The Congress, whenever two thirds of both
houses shall deem it necessary, shall propose

CONSTITUTION. 315

amendments to this constitution, or, on the ap-
plication of the legislatures of two thirds of the
several states, shall call a convention for pro-,
posing amendments, which, in either case, shall
be valid to all intents and purposes, as part of
this constitution, when ratified by the legisla-
tures of three fourths of the several states, or by
conventions in three fourths thereof, as the one
or the other mode of ratification may be pro-
posed by the Congress ; provided that no amend-
ment which may be made prior to the year one
thousand eight hundred and eight, shall in any
manner affect the first and fourth clauses in the
ninth section of the first article; and that no
state, without its consent, shall be deprived of
its equal suffrage in the Senate.

AKTICLE VI.

1. All debts contracted, and engagements
entered into, before the adoption of this consti-
tution, shall be as valid against the United
States under this constitution, as under the con-
federation.

2, This constitution, and the laws of the
United States which shall be made in pursu-
ance thereof, and all treaties made, or which
shall be made, under the authority of the United

D16 CONSTITUTION.

States, shall be the supreme law of the land ;
and the judges in every state shall be bound
'thereby ; anything in the constitution or laws
of any state to the contrary notwithstanding.

3. The senators and representatives before
mentioned, and the members of the several
state legislatures, and all the executive and ju-
dicial officers, both of the United States and of
the several states, shall be bound by oath or
afiirmation to support this constitution ; but no
religious test shall ever be required as a quali-
fication to any office or public trust under the
United States.

ARTICLE VII.

The ratification of the conventions of nine
states shall be sufficient for the establishment
of this constitution between the states so ratify-
ing the same.

Done in convention, by the unanimous consent
of the states present, the seventeenth day of Sep-
tember, in the year of our Lord one thousand
seven himdred and eighty-seven, and of the
Independence of the United States of Amer-
ica the twelfth. In witness whereof we have
hereunto subscribed our names.

CONSTITUTION.

31*7

GEORGE WASHINGTON,

President, and Deputy from Virginia.

New Hampshire.
JOHN LANGDON,
NICHOLAS OILMAN.

Massachusetts.
NATHANIEL GORHAM,
RUFUS KING.

Connecticut.
WM. SAMUEL JOHNSON,
ROGER SHERMAN.

New York.
ALEXANDER HAMILTON.

New Jersey.
WILLIAM LIVINGSTON,
DAVID BREARLY,
WILLIAM PATTERSON,
JONATHAN DAYTON.

Pennsylvania
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN,
THOMAS MIFFLIN,
ROBERT MORRIS,
GEORGE CLYMEPv,
THOMAS FITZSIMONS,
JARED INGERSOLL,
JAMES WILSON,
GOUVERNEUR MORRIS.

Attest,

Delaware.
GEORGE READ,
GUNNING BEDFORD, Jr.
JOHN DICKERSON,
RICHARD BASSETT,
JACOB BROOM,

Maryland.
JAMES M'HENRY,
DAN'L of ST. THO. JENIFER,
DAxNIEL CARROLL.

Virginia.
JOHN BLAIR,
JAMES MADISON, Jr.

North Carolina.
WILLIAM BLOUNT,
RICHARD DOBBS SPAIGHT,
HUGH tWILLIAMSON.

South Carolina.
JOHN RUTLEDGE,
CHARLES C. PINCKNEY,
CHARLES PINCKNEY,
PIERCE BUTLER.

Georgia.

WILLIAM FEW,
ABRAHAM BALDWIN.

WILLIAM JACKSON, Secretary.

27^

318

AMEND3IE.NTS

AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION. I

Art. I. — Congress shall make no law re-
specting an establishment of religion, or pro-
hibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging
the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the
right of the people peaceably to assemble and
to petition the government for a redress of
grievances.'

Art. II. — A well-regulated militia being ne-
cessary for the security of a free state, the right
of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be
infringed.

Art. III. — No soldier shall, in time of peace,
be quartered in any house without the consent
of the owner, nor in time of war', but in a man-
ner to be prescribed by law.

Art. IV. — The right of the people to be
secure in their persons, houses, papers, and
effects, against unreasonable searches and seiz-
ures, shall not be violated ; and no warrants
shall issue but upon probable cause, supported
by oath or affirmation, and particularly describ-
ing the place to be searched, and the persons or
things to be seized.

AMENDMENTS. 319

Art. V. — No person shall be held to answer
for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, un-
less on a presentment or indictment of a grand
jury, except in cases arising in the land or
naval forces, or in the militia when in actual
service, in time of war or public danger ; nor
shall any person be subject for the same offence
to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb ; nor
shall be compelled, in any criminal case, to be
witness against himself, nor be deprived of
life, liberty, or property, without due pro-
cess of law; nor shall private property be
taken for public use without just compensa-
tion.

Art. yi. — In all criminal prosecutions, the
accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and
public trial, by an impartial jury of the state
and district wherein the crime shall have been
committed, which district shall have been pre-
viously ascertained by law, and to be informed
of the nature and cause of the accusation ; to be
confronted with the witnesses against him ; to
have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses
in his. favor; and to have the assistance of
counsel for his defence.

Art. VII. — In suits of common law, where
the value in controversy shall exceed twenty

320 AMENDMENTS.

dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be pre-
served ; and no fact tried by a jury shall be
otherwise reexamined in any court of the United
States than according to the rules of the com-
mon law.

Art. VIII. — Excessive bail shall not be re-
quired, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel
and unusual punishments inflicted.

Art. IX. — The enumeration, in the consti-
tution, of certain rights, shall not be construed
to deny or disparage others retained by the
people.

Art. X. — The powers not delegated to the
United States by the constitution, nor prohibited
by it to the states, are reserved to the states re-
spectively, or to the people.

Art. XI. — The judicial power of the United
States shall not be construed to extend to any
suit in law or equity commenced or prosecuted
against one of the United States by citizens of
another state, or by citizens or subjects of any
foreign state.

Art. XII. — The electors shall meet in their
respective states, and vote by ballot for Presi-
dent and Vice-President, one of whom, at least,
shall not be an inhabitant of the same state
with themselves ; they shall name in their bal-

AMENDMENTS. 321

lots the person voted for as President, and in
distinct ballots the person voted for as Vice-
President; and they shall make distinct lists
of all persons voted for as President, and of all
persons voted for as Vice-President, and of the
number of votes for each ; \Yhich lists they shall
sign and certify, and transmit sealed to the seat
of government of the United States, directed to
the President of the Senate. The President
of the Senate shall, in the presence of the
Senate and House of Representatives, open all
the certificates, and the votes shall then be
counted ; the person having the greatest num-
ber of votes for President, shall be President, if
such number be a majority of the whole num-
ber of electors appointed; and if no person
have such majority, then, from the persons hav-
ing the highest number, not exceeding three,
on the list of those voted for as President, the
House of Representatives shall choose imme-
diately, by ballot, the President. But, in
choosing the President, the votes shall be taken
by states, the representation from each state
having one vote; a quorum for this purpose
shall consist of a member or members from two
thirds of the states, and a majority of all the
states shall be necessary to a choice. And if

It

322 AMENDMENTS,

the House of Representatives shall not choose
a President, whenever the right of choice shall
devolve upon them, before the fourth day of
March next following, then the Vice-President
shall act as President, as in the case of the
death or other constitutional disability of the
President.

2. The person having the greatest number
of votes as Vice-President shall be the Vice-
President, if such number be a majority of the
whole number of electors appointed ; and if no
person have a majority, then, from the two
highest numbers on the list, the Senate shall
choose the Vice-President; a quorum for the
purpose shall consist of two thirds of the
whole number of senators, and a majority of
the whole number shall be necessary to a
choice.

3. But no person constitutionally ineligi-
ble to the office of President, shall be eligi-
ble to that of Vice-President of the United
States.

Art. XIII. — If any citizen of the United
States shall accept, claim, receive, or retain any
title of nobility or honor, or shall, without the
consent of Congress, accept or retain any pres-
ent, pension, office or emolument of any kind

AMENDMENTS. 323

whatever, from any emperor, king, prince, or
foreign power, such person shall cease to be a
citizen of the United States, and shall be inca-
pable of holding any office of trust or profit
under them or either of them.

WASIIINGTOK'g INAUGURAL ADDRESS.

April 30, 1789.

FelloiV'Citizens of the Se7iate.

and House of Representatives i

Among the vicissitudes incident to life, no
event could have filled me with greater anxie-
ties than that of which the noliOcalion was
transmitted by your order, and received on the
14th day of the present month. On the one
hand, I was summoned by my country, whose
voice I can never hear but with veneration and
love, from a retreat which I had chosen with
the fondest predilection, and, in my flattering
hopes, with an immutable decision, as the asy-
lum of my declining years, a retreat which was
rendered every day more necessary as well as
more dear to me by the addition of habit to in-
clination, and of frequent interruptions in my
health, to the gradual waste com-mitted on it by
time. On the other hand, the magnitude and
difficulty of the trust to which the voice of m^

^i

Washington's inaugural address. 325

country called me, being sufficient to awaken
in the wisest and most experienced of her citi-
zens a distrustful scrutiny into his qualifica-
tions, could not but overwhelm with despond-
ency one who, inheriting inferior endowments
from nature, and unpractised in the duties of
civil administration, ought to be peculiarly con-
scious of his own deficiencies. In this conflict
of emotions, all that I dare aver is, that it has
been my faithful study to collect my duty from
a just appreciation of every circumstance by
which it might be affected. All I dare hope is,
that if, in executing this task, I have been too
much swayed by a grateful remembrance of for-
mer instances, or by an affectionate sensibility
to this transcendent proof of the confidence of
my fellow-citizens, and have thence too little
consulted my incapacity as well as disinclina-
tion for the weighty and untried cares before
me, my error will be palliated by the motives
which misled me, and its consequences be
judged by my country with some share of the
partiality with which they originated.

Such being the impressions under which 1
have, in obedience to the public summons, re-
paired to the present station, it would be pecu-
liarly improper to omit, in this first official act,
23

326 washingtoxn's inaugural address.

my fervent supplications to that Almighty
Being who rules over the universe, who pre-
sides in the councils of nations, and whose
providential aids can supply every human de-
fect, that his benediction may consecrate to the
liberties and happiness of the people of the
United States a government instituted by them-
selves for these essential purposes, and may
enable every instrument employed in its admin-
istration to execute with success the functions
allotted to his charge. In tendering this homage
to the great Author of every public and private
good, I assure myself that it expresses your sen-
timents not less than my own, nor those of my
fellow-citizens at large less than either. No
people can be bound to acknowledge and adore
the invisible Hand which conducts the affairs
of men, more than the people of the United
States. Every step by which they have ad-
vanced to the character of an independent
nation seems to have been distinguished by
some token of providential agency; and in
the important revolution just accomplished
in the system of their united government,
the tranquil deliberations and voluntary con-
sent of so many distinct communities, from
which the event has resulted, cannot be com-

Washington's inaugural address. 327

pared with the means by which most govern-
ments have been established without some
return of pious gratitude, along with an hum-
ble anticipation of the future blessings which
the past seems to presage. These reflections,
arising out of the present crisis, have forced
themselves too strongly on m,y mind to be sup-
pressed. You will join with me, I trust, in
thinking that there are none under the influ-
ence of which the proceedings of a new and
free government can more auspiciously com-
mence.

By the article establishing the executive de-
partment, it is made the duty of the President
" to recommend to your consideration such
measures as he shall judge necessary and ex-
pedient." The circumstances under which I
now meet you will acquit me from entering
into that subject further than to refer to the
great constitutional charter under which you
are assembled, and which, in defining your
powers, designates the objects to which your
attention is to be given. It will be more con-
sistent with those circumstances, and far more
congenial with the feelings which actuate me,
to substitute, in place of a recommendation of
particular measures, the tribute that is due to

328 Washington's inaugural address.

the talents, the rectitude, and the patriotism
which adorn the characters selected to devise
and adopt them. In these honorable qualifica-
tions I behold the surest pledges that as, on one
side, no local prejudices or attachments, no
separate views nor party animosities, will misdi-
rect the comprehensive and equal eye which
ought to watch over this great assemblage of
communities and interests, so, on another, that
the foundations of our national policy will be
laid in the pure and immutable principles of
private morality ; and the preeminence of free
government be exemplified by all the attributes
which can Vv^in the afiections of its citizens, and
command the respect of the world. I dwell on
this prospect with every satisfaction which an
ardent love for my country can inspire, since
there is no truth more thoroughly established
than that there exists in the economy and
course of nature an indissoluble union between
virtue and happiness ; betv\'een duty and advan-
tage ; between the genuine maxims of an hon-
est and magnanimous policy and the solid
rewards of public prosperity and felicity ; since
we ought to be less persuaded that the propi-
tious smiles of Heaven can never be expected
on a nation that diresfards the eternal rules of

Washington's inaugural address. 329

order and right which Heaven itself has or-
dained, and since the preservation of the sacred
fire of liberty, and the destiny of the republican
model of government, are justly considered
as deeply, perhaps as finally, staked on the ex-
periment intrusted to the hands of the Ameri-
can people.

Besides the ordinary objects submitted to
your care, it will remain with your judgment
to decide how far an exercise of the occasional
power delegated by the fifth article of the con-
stitution is rendered expedient, at the present
juncture, by the nature of the objections which
have been urged against the system, or by the
degree of inquietude which has given birth to
them. Instead of undertaking particular rec-
ommendations on this subject, in which I
could be guided by no lights derived from offi-
cial opportunities, I shall again give way to my
entire confidence in your discernment and pur-
suit of the public good ; for I assure myself
that while you carefully avoid every alteration
which might endanger the benefits of a united
and effective government, or which ought to
await the future lessons of experience, a rever-
ence for the characteristic rights of freemen,
and a regard for the public harmony, will suf-
28^

330 Washington's inaugural address.

ficiently influence your deliberations on the
question how far the former can be more im-
pregnably fortified, or the latter be safely and
advantageously promoted.

To the preceding observations I have one to
add, which will be most properly addressed to
the House of Representatives. It concerns my-
self, and will therefore be as brief as possible.
When I was first honored with a call into the
service of my country, then on the eve of an
arduous struggle for its liberties, the light in
which I contemplated my duty required that I
should renounce every pecuniary compensation.
From this resolution I have in no instance de-
parted ; and being still under the impressions
which produced it, I must decline, as inappli-
cable to myself, any share in the personal
emoluments which may be indispensably inclu-
ded in a permanent provision for the executive
department, and must accordingly pray that the
pecuniary estimates for the station in which I
am placed, may, during my continuance in it,
be limited to such actual expenditures as the
public good may be thought to require.

Having thus imparted to you my sentiments
as they have been awakened by the occasion
which brings us together, I shall take my pres-

Washington's inaugural address. 331

ent leave, but not wiihoiU resorting once more
to the benign Parent of the hiunan race, in
humble supplication that, since lie has been
pleased to favor the American people with op-
portunities for deliberating in perfect tranquillity,
and dispositions for deciding with unparalleled
unaninaity on a form of government for the se-
curity of their union and the advancement of
their happiness, so liis divine blessing may be
equally conspicuous in the enlarged views, the
temperate consuh.ations, and the wise measures
on which the success of this government must
depend.

WASHINGTON'S FIRST ANNUAL ADDRESS.

January 8, 1790.

Fellow- Citizens of the Senate

and House of Represe/Uatives :

I EMBRACE with great satisfaction the oppor-
tunity which now presents itself of congratulat-
ing you oil the present favorable prospects of
our public affairs. The recent accession of the
important state of North Carolina to the consti-
tution of the United States, (of which official
information has been received,) the rising credit
and respectability of our country, the general
and increasing good-will towards the govern-
ment of the Union, and the concord, peace and
plenty, with which we are blessed, are circum-
stances auspicious, in an eminent degree, to
our national prosperity.

In resuming your consultations for the gen-
eral good, you cannot but derive encouragement
from the reflection that the measures of the last
session have been as satisfactory to your con-

I

Washington's first annual address. 333

stituents as the novelty and difficulty of the
work allowed you to hope. Still further to
realize their expectations, and to. secure the
blessings which a gracious Providence has
placed within our reach, will, in the course of
the present important session, call for the cool
and deliberate exertion of your patriotism, firm-
ness, and wisdom.

Among the many interesting objects which
will engage your attention, that of providing
for the comm"Dn defence will merit particular
regard. To be prepared for war, is one of the
most effectual means of preserving peace.
^ A free people .ought not only to be armed,
but disciplined i-^o which end a uniform and
well-digested plan is requisite : and their safe-
ty and interest require that they should promote
such manufactures as tend to render them in-
dependent of others for essential, particularly
military supplies.

The proper establishment of the troops which
may be deemed indispensable will be entitled
to mature consideration. In the arrangements
which may be made respecting it, it will be of
importance to conciliate the comfortable support
of the officers and soldiers, with a due regard
to economy.

834 Washington's fikst annual address.

There was reason to hope that the pacific
measures adopted with regard to certain hostile
tribes of Indians would have relieved the in-
habitants of our southern and western frontiers
from their depredations ; but you will perceive,
from the information contained in the papers
which I shall direct to be laid before you, (com-
prehending a communication from the Com-
monwealth of Virginia,) that we ought to be
prepared to afford protection to those parts of
the Union, and, if necessary to punish aggres-
sors.

The interests of the United States require
that our intercourse with other nations should
be facilitated by such provisions as will enable
me to fulfil my duty in that respect in the man-
ner which circumstances may render most con-
ducive to the public good, and, to this end, that
the compensations to be made to the persons
who may be employed should, according to the
nature of their appointments, be defined by law;
and a competent fund designated for defraying
the expenses incident to. the conduct of our
foreign affairs.

Various considerations also render it expe-
dient that the terms on which foreigners may
be admitted to the rights of citizens should

Washington's fiust annual address. 335

be speedily ascertained by a uniform rule of
naturalization.
/ Uniformity in the currency, weights and
measures of the United States, is an object of
great importance, and will, I am persuaded, be
duly attended to/

The advancement of agriculture, commerce,
and manufactures, by all proper means, will
not, I trust, need recommendation ; but 1 can-
not forbear intimating to you the expediency of
giving effectual encouragement, as well to the
introduction of new and useful inventions from
abroad, as to the exertions of skill and genius in
producing them at home ; and of facilitating
the intercourse between the distant parts of our
country by a due attention to the post-office and
post-roads.

Nor am I less persuaded that you will agree
with me in opinion, that /(here is nothing which
can better deserve your patronage than the
promotion of science and literature./ Know-
ledge is in every country the surest basis of
public happiness, a In one in which the mea-
sures of government receive their impressions
so immediately from the sense of the commu-
nity as in ours, it is prop'ortionably essential.
To the security of a free constitution it con-

336 Washington's first annual address.

tributes in various ways : by convincing thosfe
who are entrusted with the public administra-
tion that every valuable end of government is
best answered by the enlightened confidence of
the people ; and by teaching the people them-
selves to know and to value their own rights ;
to discern and provide against invasions of
them; to distinguish between oppression and
the necessary exercise of lawful authority; be-
tween burdens proceeding from a disregard to
their convenience, and those resulting from the
inevitable exigencies of society ; to discriminate
the spirit of liberty from that of licentiousness,
cherishing the first, avoiding the last, and
uniting a speedy but temperate vigilance
against encroachments, with an inviolable re-
spect to the laws.

Whether this desirable object will be best
promoted by affording aids to seminaries of
learning already established, by the institution
of a national university, or by any other expe-
dients, will be well worthy of a place in the
deliberations of the legislature.

Gentlemen of the House of Representatives :

I saw with peculiar pleasure, at the close of
the last session, the resolution entered into by

Washington's first annual address. 837

you, expressive of your opinion that an ade-
quate provision for the support of the public
credit is a matter of high importance to the
national honor and prosperity. In this senti-
ment I entirely concur. And, to a perfect
confidence in your best endeavors to devise
such a provision as will be truly consistent
with the end, I add an equal reliance on the
cheerful cooperation of the other branch of
the legislature. It would be superfluous to
specify inducements to a measure in which
the character and permanent interest of the
United States are so obviously and so deeply
concerned, and which has received so explicit
a sanction from, your declaration.

Gentlemen of the Senate

and House of RepTesentatives :

I have directed the proper officers to lay
before you, respectively, such papers and
estimates as regard the affairs particularly
recommended to your consideration, and ne-
cessary to convey to you that information of
the state of the Union which it is my duty to
afford.

jf The welfare of our country is the great ob-

"^ect to which our cares and efforts ought to be

.29

338 WASHINGTON'S FIRST ANNUAL ADDRESS.

directed.y/And I shall derive great satisfaction
from a cooperation with you in the pleasing
though arduous task of insuring to our fellow-
citizens the blessings which they have a right
to expect from a free, efficient, and equal gov-
ernment*

WASHINGTON'S FAREWELL ADDRESS.

September 17, 1796.

Friends and Fellow- Citizens :

The period for a new election of a citizen to
administer the executive government of the
United States being not far distant, and the
time actually arrived when your thoughts must
be employed in designating the person who
is to be clothed with that important trust, it
appears to me proper, especially as it may con
duce to a more distinct expression of the public
voice, that I should now apprize you of the
resolution I have formed, to decline being con-
sidered among the number of those out of whom
the choice is to be made.

I beg you, at the same time, to do me the
justice to be assured, that this resolution has
not been taken without a strict regard to all
the considerations appertaining to the relation,
which binds a dutiful citizen to his country;

340 Washington's farewell address.

and that, in withdrawing the tender of service,
which silence in my situation might imply, I
am influenced by no diminution of zeal for
your future interest ; no deficiency of grateful
respect for ^'■our past kindness ; but am sup-
ported by a full conviction that the step is com-
patible with both.

The acceptance of, and continuance hitherto
in, the office to which your suffrages have
twice called me, have been a uniform sacrifice
of inclination to the opinion of duty, and to a
deference for what appeared to be your desire.
I constantly hoped that it would have been
much earlier in my power, consistently with
motives which I was not at liberty to disregard,
to return to that retirement from which I had
been reluctantly drawn. The strength of my
inclination to do this, previous to the last elec-
tion, had even led to the preparation of an
address to declare it to you ; but mature reflec-
tion on the then perplexed and critical posture
of affairs with foreign nations, and the unani-
mous advice of persons entitled to my confi-
dence, impelled me to abandon the idea. I
rejoice that the state of your concerns, external
as well as internal, no longer renders the pur^
suit of inclination incompatible with the senti-

Washington's farewell address. 341

ment of duty or propriety ; and am persuaded,
whatever partiality may be retained for my ser-
vices, that, in the present circumstances of our
country, you will not disapprove of my deter-
mination to retire.

The impressions with which I first under-
took the arduous trust were explained on the
proper occasion. In the discharge of this trust,
I will only say, that I have, with good inten-
tions, contributed towards the organization and
administration of the government the best exer-
tions of which a very fallible judgment was
capable. Not unconscious, in the outset, of the
inferiority of my qaalifications, experience, in
my own eyes, perhaps still more in the eyes of
others, has strengthened the motives to diffi-
dence of myself; and, every day, the increasing
weight of years admonishes me more and
more, that the shade of retirement is as neces-
sary to me as it will be welcome. Satisfied
that if any circumstances have given peculiar
value to my services, they were temporary, I
have the consolation to believe, that while
choice and prudence invite me to quit the politi-
cal scene, patriotism does not forbid it.

In looking forward to the moment which is
to terminate the career of my political life, my
29'^

342 Washington's farewell address.

feelings do not permit me to suspend the deep
acknowledgment of that debt of gratitude which
I owe to my beloved country for the many
honors it has conferred upon me ; still more for
the steadfast confidence with which it has sup-
ported me ; and for the opportunities I have
thence enjoyed of manifesting my inviolable
attachment, by services faithful and persevering,
though in usefulness unequal to my zeal. If
benefits have resulted to our country from these
services, let it always be remembered to your
praise, and as an instructive example in our
annals, that under circumstances in which the
passions, agitated in every direction, were liable
to mislead, amidst appearances sometimes du-
bious, vicissitudes of fortune often discouraging,
in situations in which not unfrequently want
of success has countenanced the spirit of criti-
cism, the constancy of your support was the
essential prop of the efforts, and a guaranty of
the plans, by which they were effected. Pro-
foundly penetrated with this idea, I shall carry
it with me to the grave, as a strong incitement
to unceasing wishes that Heaven may continue
to you the choicest tokens of its beneficence —
that your union and brotherly affection may be
perpetual — that the free constitution which is

Washington's farewell address. 343

the work of your hands mayl^e sacredly main-
tained— that its administration in every depart-
ment may be stamped with wisdom and virtue —
that, in fine, the happiness of the people of
these states, under the auspices of liberty, may
be made complete, by so careful a preservation,
and so prudent a use of this blessing, as will
acquire to them the glory of recommending it
to the applause, the affection, and adoption of
every nation which is yet a stranger to it.

Here, perhaps, I ought to stop. But a solic-
itude for your welfare, which cannot end but
with my life, and the apprehension of danger,
natural to that solicitude, urge me, on an occa-
sion like the present, to offer to your solemn
contemplation, and to recommend to your fre-
quent review, some sentiments, which are the
result of much reflection, of no inconsiderable
observation, and which appear to me all-impor-
tant to the permanency of your felicity as a
people. These will be offered to you with the
more freedom, as you can only see in them the
disinterested warnings of a parting friend, who
can possibly have no personal motives to bias
his counsel. Nor can I forget, as an encourage-
ment to it, your indulgent reception of my sen-

344 Washington's farewell address.

timents on a former and not dissimilar occa-
sion.

Interwoven as is the love of liberty with
every ligament of our hearts, no recommenda-
tion of mine is necessary to fortify or confirm
the attachment.

The unity of government, which constitutes
you one people, is also now dear to you. It is
justly so; for it is a main pillar in the edifice
of your real independence; the support of your
tranquillity at home; your peace abroad; of
your safety ; of your prosperity ; of that very
liberty which you so highly prize. But as it
is easy to foresee, that, from different causes
and from different quarters, much pains will be
taken, many artifices employed, to weaken in
3^our minds the conviction of this truth; as this
is the point in your political fortress against
which the batteries of internal and external
enemies will be most constantly and actively
(though often covertly and insidiously) di-
rected ; it is of infinite moment, that you should
properly estimate the immense value of your
national union to your collective and individual
happiness ; that you should cherish a cordial,
habitual, and immovable attachment to it;
accustoming yourselves to think and to speak

Washington's farewell address. 345

of it as a palladiam of your political safety and
prosperity ; watching for its preservation with
jealous anxiety ; discountenancing whatever
may suggest even a suspicion that it can in
any event be abandoned; and indignantly
frowning upon the first dawning of every
attempt to alienate any portion of our country
from the rest, or to enfeeble the sacred ties
which now link together the various parts.

For this you have every inducement of sym-
pathy and interest. Citizens, by birth or
choice, of a common country, that country has
a right to concentrate your affections. The
name of American, which belongs to you in
your national capacity, must always exalt the
just pride of patriotism more than any appella-
tion derived from local discriminations. With
slight shades of difference, you have the same
religion, manners, habits, and political princi-
ple. You have, in a common cause, fought
and triumphed together ; the independence and
liberty you possess are the work of joint coun-
cils and joint efforts — of common dangers, suf-
ferings, and success.

But these considerations, however powerfully
they address themselves to your sensibility, are
greatly outweighed by those which apply more

346 Washington's farewell address.

immediately to your interest. Here every por-
tion of our country finds the most commanding
motives for carefully guarding and preserving
the union of the whole.

The north, in an unrestrained mtercourse
with the south, protected by the equal laws of
a common government, finds in the productions
of the latter great additional resources of mari-
time and commercial enterprise, and precious
materials of manufacturing industry. The
south, in the same intercourse, benefiting by
the same agency of the north, sees its agricul-
ture grow and its commerce expand. Turning
partly into its own channels the seamen of the
north, it finds its particular navigation invig-
orated— and while it contributes in different
v/ays to nourish and increase the general mass
of the national navigation, it looks forward to
the protection of a maritime strength, to which
itself is unequally adapted. The east, in like
intercourse with the loest, already finds, and in
the progressive improvement of interior com-
munications by land and water will more and
more find, a valuable vent for the commodities
which it brings from abroad, or manufactures
at home. The west derives from the east sup-
plies requisite to its growth and comfort ; and

Washington's farewell address. 847

what is perhaps of still greater consequence, it
must of necessity owe the secure enjoyment of
indispensable outlets for its own productions, to
the weight, influence, and the future maritime
strength of the Atlantic side of the Union, di-
rected by an indissoluble community of interest
as one nation. Any other tenure by which the
west can hold this essential advantage, whether
derived from its own separate strength, or from
an apostate and unnatural connection with any
foreign power, nmst be intrinsically precarious.
While, then, every part of our country thus
feels an immediate and particular interest in
union, all the parts combined cannot fail to find
in the united mass of means and efforts, greater
strength, greater resource, proportionably greater
security from external danger, a less frequent
interruption of their peace by foreign nations ;
and, what is of inestimable value, they must
derive from union an exemption from those
broils and wars between themselves, which so
frequently afflict neighboring countries, not tied
together by the same government, which their
own rivalships alone would be sufficient to pro-
duce ; but which opposite foreign alliances,
attachments, and intrigues, would stimulate and
imbitter. Hence, likewise, they will avoid the

348 Washington's farewell address.

necessity of those overgrown military estab-
lishments, which, under any form of govern-
ment, are inauspicious to liberty, and which
are to be regarded as particularly hostile to
republican liberty. In this sense it is, that
your union ought to be considered as a main
prop of youi: liberty, and that the love of the
one ought to endear to you the preservation of
the other.

These considerations speak a persuasive lan-
guage to every reflecting and virtuous mind,
and exhibit the continuance of the union as a
primary object of patriotic: desire. Is there a
doubt whether a common government can
embrace so large a sphere ? Let experience
solve it. To listen to a mere speculation in
such a case were criminal. We are authorized
to hope that a proper organization of the whole,
with the auxiliary agency of governments for
the respective subdivisions, will afford a happy
issue of the experiment. It is well worth a
fair and full experiment. With such powerful
and obvious motives to union, affecting all
parts of our country, while experience shall not
have demonstrated its impracticability, there
will always be reason to distrust the patriotism

WASHINGtON's FAREWELL ADDRESS. 349

of those who in any quarter may endeavor to
weaken its bands.

In contemplating the causes which may dis-
turb our union, it occurs as matter of serious
concern that any ground should have been fur-
nished for characterizing parties by geographical
discriminations — Northern and Southern; At^
lantic and Western; whence designing men may
endeavor to excite a belief that there is a real
difference of local interests and views. One of
the expedients of a pai'ty to acquire influence
within particular districts is to misrepresent the
opinions and aims of other districts. You cannot
shield yourselves too much against the jealous-
ies and heart-burnings which spring from these
misrepresentations ; they tend to render alien
to each other those who ought to be bound
together by fraternal affection. The inhabi-
tants of our western country have lately had a
useful lesson on this head. They have seen,
in the negotiation by the executive, and in the
unanimous ratification by the senate of the
treaty with Spain, and in the universal satis-
faction at that event throughout the United
States, a decisive proof how unfounded were
the suspicions propagated among them of a
policy in the general government, and in the
30

350 WJiSHlNGTON's FAREWELL ADDRESS.

Atlantic states, unfriendly to their interests iri
regard to the Mississippi. They have been
witnesses to the formation of two treaties, —
that with Great Britain, and that with Spain^
— which secure to them everything they could
desire, in respect to our foreign relations, to-
wards confirming their prosperity. Will it not
be their wisdom to rely for the preservation of
these advantages on the union by which they
were procured ? Will they not henceforth be
deaf to those advisers, if such there are, who
would sever them from their brethren, and
connect them with aliens ?

To the efiicacy and permanency of your
union, a government for the whole is indispen-
sable. No alliances, however strict, between
the parts, can be an adequate substitute ; they
must inevitabl\^ experience the infractions and
interruptions which alliances at all times have
experienced. Sensible of this momentous
truth, you have improved upon your first
essay, by the adoption of a constitution of gov-
ernment better calculated than your former for
an intimate union, and for the efficacious man-
agement of your common concerns. This
government, the offspring of your own choice,
uninfluenced and unawed ; adopted upon full

Washington's farewell address. 351

investigation and mature deliberation ; com-
pletely free in its principles ; in the distribution
of its powers uniting security with energy, and
containing within itself provision for its own
amendment, has a just claim to your confidence
and your support. Respect for its authority,
compliance with its laws, acquiescence in its
measures, are duties enjoined by the fundamen-
tal maxims of true liberty. The basis of our
political system is the right of the people to
make and to alter their constitutions of govern-
ment. But the constitution which at any time
exists, until changed by an explicit and authen-
tic act of the whole people, is sacredly obliga-
tory upon all. The very idea of the power
and the right of the people to establish govern-
ment, presupposes the duty of every individual
to obey the established government.

All obstructions to the execution of the laws,
all combinations and associations, under what-
ever plausible character, with the real design to
direct, control, counteract, or awe, the regular
deliberations and action of the constituted au-
thorities, are destructive of this fundamental
principle, and of fatal tendency. They serve
to organize faction ; to give it an artificial and
extraordinary force ; to put in the place of the

852 Washington's farewell address.

delegated will of the nation the will of party,
often a small, but artful and enterprising
minority of the community ; and according to
the alternate triumphs of different parties, to
make the public administration the mirror of
the ill-concerted and incongruous projects of
faction, rather than the organ of consistent and
wholesome plans, digested by common counsels
and modified by mutual interests.

However combinations or associations of the
above description may now and then answer
popular ends, they are likely, in the-course of
time and things, to become potent engines by
which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled
men will be enabled to subvert the power of the
people, and to usurp for themselves the reins
of government; destroying afterwards the very
engines which have lifted them to unjust do-
minion.

Towards the preservation of your govern-
ment, and the permanency of your present
happy state, it is requisite not only that you
steadily discountenance irregular opposition to
its acknowledged authority, but also that you
resist with care the spirit of innovation upon its
principles, however specious the pretext. One
method of assault may be to effect in the forms

Washington's farewell address. 3-53

of the constitution alterations which will impair
the energy of the system, and thus to under-
mine what, cannot be directly overthrown. In
all the changes to which you may be invited,
remember that time and habit are at least
as necessary to fix the true character of govern-
ments, as of other human institutions; that
experience is the surest standard by which to
test the real tendency of the existing constitu
tions of a country ; that facility in changes,
upon the credit of mere hypothesis and opinion,
exposes to perpetual change, from the endless
variety of hypothesis and opinion ; and remem-
ber especially, that, for the efficient manage-
ment of your common interests, in a country so
extensive as ours, a government of as much
vigor as is consistent with the perfect security
of liberty, is indispensable. Liberty itself
will find in such a government, with powers
properly distributed and adjusted, its surest
guardian.' It is, indeed, little else than a
name, where the government is too feeble to
withstand the enterprises of faction, to confine
each member of society within the limits pre-
scribed by the laws, and to maintain all in the
secure and tranquil enjoyment jf the rights of
person and property.

30^

354 Washington's farewell address.

I have already intimated to you the danger
of parties in the state, with particular reference
to the founding of them upon geographical dis-
criminations. Let me now take a more com-
prehensive view, and warn you, in the most
solemn manner, against the baneful effects of
the spirit of party generally.

This spirit, unfortunately, is inseparable from
our nature, having its root in the strongest pas-
sions of the human mind. It exists under
different shapes in all governments, more or
less stifled, controlled, or repressed; but in
those of the popular form it is seen in its great-
est rankness, and is truly their worst enemy.

The alternate domination of one faction over
another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge
natural to party dissension, which in different
ages and countries has perpetrated the most
horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism.
But this leads at length to a more formal and
permanent despotism. The disorders and mis-
eries which result, gradually incline the minds
of men to seek security and repose in the abso-
lute power of an individual ; and, sooner or
later, the chief of some prevailing faction, more
able or more fortunate than his competitors,

Washington's farewell address. 855

turns this disposition to the purposes of his own
elevation on the ruins of the public liberty.

Without looking forward to an extremity of
this kind, (which, nevertheless, ought not to be
entirely out of sight,) the common and con-
tinual mischiefs of the spirit of a party are
sufficient to make it the interest and duty of a
wise people to discourage and restrain it.

It serves always to distract the public coun-
cils, and enfeeble the public administration. It
agitates the community with ill-founded jeal-
ousies and false alarms ; kindles the animosity
of one part against another ; foments occasional
riot and insurrection. It opens the, door to
foreign influence and corruption, which finds
a facilitated access to the government itself
through the channels of party passion. Thus
the policy and will of one country are subjected
to the policy and will of another.

There is an opinion that parties in free coun-
tries are useful checks upon the administration
of the government, and serve to keep alive the
spirit of liberty. This, within certain limits, is
probably true ; and in governments of a mo-
narchical cast, patriotism may look with indul-
gence, if not v^iih favor, upon the spirit of
party. But in those of the popular character,

356 Washington's farewell address.

in governments purely elective, it is a spirit not
to be encouraged. From the natural tendency,
it is certain there will always be enough of that
spirit for every salutary purpose; and there
being constant danger of excess, the effort
ought to be, by force of public opinion, to miti-
gate and assuage it. A fire not to be quenched,
it demands a uniform vigilance to prevent its
bursting into a flame, lest, instead of warming,
it should consume.

It is important, likewise, that the habits of
thinking, in a free country, should inspire
caution, in those intrusted with its administra-
tion, to confine themselves within their respec-
tive constitutional spheres ; avoiding, in the
exercise of the powers of one department, to
encroach upon another. The spirit of encroach-
ment tends to consolidate the powers of all the
departments in one, and thus to create, what-
ever the form of government, a real despotism.
A just estimate of that love of power, and
proneness to abuse it, which predominates in
the human heart, is sufficient to satisfy us of
the truth of this position. The necessity of
reciprocal checks in the exercise of political
power, by dividing and distributing it into dif-
ferent depositories, and constituting each the

Washington's farewell address. 357

guardian of the public weal against invasions
of the other, has been evinced by experiments,
ancient and modern ; some of them in our
country, and under our own eyes. To pre-
serve them must be as necessary as to institute
them. If, in the opinion of the people, the dis-
tribution or modification of the constitutional
powers be, in any particular, wrong, let it be
corrected by an amendment in the way which
the constitution designates. But let there be
no change by usurpation; for though this, in
one instance, may be the instrument of good, it
is the customary weapon by which free govern-
ments are destroyed. The precedent must
always greatly overbalance, in permanent evil,
any partial or transient benefit which the use
can at any time yield.

Of all the dispositions and habits which lead
to political prosperity, religion and morality are
indispensable supports. In vain would that
man claim the tribute of patriotism v^^ho should
labor to subvert these great pillars of human
happiness — these firmest props of the duties
of men and citizens. The mere politician,
equally with the pious man, ought to respect
and to cherish them. A volume could not
trace all their connection with private and

358 Washington's farewell address.

public felicity. Let ii siniply be asked, where
is the security for property, for reputation, for
life, if the sense of religious obligation desert
the oaths, which are the instruments of inves-
tigation in courts of justice ? And let us with
caution indulge the supposition that morality
can be maintained without religion. What-
ever may be conceded to the influence of re-
fined education on minds of peculiar structure,
reason and experience both forbid us to expect
that national morality can prevail in exclusion
of religious principles.

It is substantially true that virtue or morality
is a necessary spring of popular government.
The rule, indeed, extends, with more or less
force, to every species of free government.
Who that is a sincere friend to it can look with
indifference upon attempts to shak« the founda-
tion of the fabric ?

Promote, then, as an object of primary im-
portance, institutions for the general diffusion
of knowledge. In proportion as the structure
of a government gives force to public opinion,
it is essential that public opinion should be en-
lightened.

As a very important source of strength and
security, cherish public credit. One method

Washington's farewell address. 359

of preserving it is to use it as sparingly as pos-
sible, avoiding occasions of expense by culti-
vating'peace, but remembering, also, that timely
disbursements to prepare for danger frequently
prevent much greater disbursements to repel it ;
avoiding, likewise, the accumulation of debt, not
only by shunning occasions of expense, but by
vigorous exertions in time of peace to discharge
the debts which unavoidable wars have occa-
sioned, not ungenerously throwing upon pos-
terity the burdens which we ourselves ought to
bear. The execution of these maxims belongs
to your representatives ; but it is necessary that
public opinion should cooperate. To facilitate
to them the performance of their duty, it is es-
sential that you should practically bear in
mind, that towards the payment of debts there
must be revenue ; that to have revenue there
must be taxes ; that no taxes can be devised
which are not more or less inconvenient and
unpleasant; that the intrinsic embarrassment,
inseparable from the selection of the proper ob-
jects, (which is always a choice of difficulties,)
ought to be a decisive motive for a candid con-
struction of the conduct of the government in
making it, and for a spirit of acquiescence in

360 Washington's farewell address.

the measures for obtaining revenue which the
public exigencies may at any time dictate.
/ Observe good faith. and justice towards all
nations ; cultivate peace and harmony with all;^
religion and morality enjoin this conduct; and
can it be that gaod policy does not equally en*
join it ? It will be worthy of a free, enlight-
ened, and, at no distant period, a great nation,
to give to mankind the magnanimous and
too novel example ol a people always guided
by an exalted justice and benevolence. Who
can doubt but that, in the. course of time
and things, the fruits of such a plan would
richly repay any temporary advantages which
might be lost by a steady adherence to it ?
Can it be that Providence has connected the
permanent felicity of a nation with its virtue ?
The experiment, at Jeast, is recommended
by every sentiment which ennobles human
nature. Alas ! it is rendered impossible by its
vices !

In the execution of such a plan, nothing is
more essential than that permanent, inveterate
antipathies against particular nations, and pas-
sionate attachment for others, should be ex-
cluded; and that, in the place of them, just
and amicable feelings towards all should be

Washington's farewell address. 361

eultivatedf The nation which indulges towards
another an habitual hatred, or an habitual fond-
ness, is, in some degree, a slavey It is a slave
to its animosity or to its affection, either of
which is sufficient to lead it astray from its
duty and its interest/Antipathy in one nation
against another disposes each more readily to
offer insult and injuryyto lay hold of slight
causes of umbrage, and to be haughty and in-
tractable when accidental or trifling occasions
of dispute occur.

Hence frequent collisions, obstinate, en-
venomed, and bloody contests. The nation,
prompted by ill-will and resentment, sometimes
impels to war the government, contrary to the
best calculations of policy. The government
sometimes participates in the national propen-
sity, and adopts, through passion, what reason
would reject ; at other times, it makes the ani-
mosity of the nation subservient to the projects
of hostility, instigated by pride, ambition, and
other sinister and pernicious motives. The
peace often, sometimes perhaps the liberty, of
nations has been the victim.

So, likewise, a passionate attachment of one
nation for another produces a variety of evils.
Sympathy for the favorite nation, facilitating
31

362 WASHINGTON'S FAKEWKLL -AI>BRESS,

the illusion of an imaginary common interest
m cases where no real common interest exists,
and infusing into one the enmities of the other,
betrays the former into a participation in the
quarrels and the wars of the latter, without ade-
quate inducements or justification. It leads,
also, to concessions to the 'favorite nation of
privileges denied to others, which are apt doubly
to injure the nation making the concessions, by
unnecessarily parting with what ought to have
been retained, and by exciting jealousy, ill-will,
and a disposition to retaliate, in the parties
from whom equal privileges are withheld ; and
it gives to ambitious, corrupt, or deluded citi-
zens, (who devote themselves to the favorite
nation,) facility to betray or sacrifice the inter-
ests of their ovi'n country without odium, some-
times even with popularity; gilding with the
appearances of a virtuous sense of obligation
to a commendable deference for public opinion,
or a laudable zeal for public good, the base or
foolish compliances of ambition, corruption, or
infatuation.

As avenues to foreign influence, in innumer-
able ways, such attachments are particularly
alarming to the truly enlightened and indepen-
dent patriot. How many opportunities do they

washingtoim's farewell address. 363

afford to tamper with domestic factions, to
practise the art of seduction, to mislead public
opinion, to influence or awe the public councils !
Such an attachment of a small or weak towards
a great and powerful nation, dooms the former
to be the satellite of the latter. Against the
insidious wiles of foreign influence, (I conjure
you to believe me, fellow-citizens,) the jealousy
of a free people ought to be constantly awake,
since history and experience prove that foreign
influence is one of the most baneful foes of re-
publican government. But that jealousy, too,
to be useful, must be impartial, else it becomes
the instrument of the very influence to be
avoided, instead of a defence against it. Ex-
cessive partiality for one foreign nation, and ex-
cessive dislike for another, cause those whom
they actuate to see danger only on one side, and
serve to veil and even second the arts of influ-
ence on the other. Real patriots, who may
resist the intrigues of the favorite, are liable to
become suspected and odious ; while its tools
and dupes usurp the applause and confidence
of the people to surrender their interests.

The great rule of conduct for us, in regard to
foreign nations, is, in extending our commercial
relations, to have with them as little political

364 Washington's farewell addbess.

connection as possible. So far as we have
already formed engagements, let them be ful-
filled with perfect good faith. Here let us
slop.

Europe has a set of primary interests, which
to us have none, or a very remote relation.
Hence, she must be engaged in frequent con-
troversies, the causes of which are essentially
foreign to our concerns. Hence, therefore, it
must be unwise in us to implicate ourselves, by
artificial ties, in the ordinary vicissitude of her
politics, or the ordinar}' combinations and col-
lisions of her friendships or enmities.

Our detached and distant situation invites
and enables us to pursue a different course. If
we remain one people, under an efficient gov-
ernment, the period is not far off when we may
defy material injury from external annoyance ;
when we may take such an attitude 'as will
cause the neutrality we may at any time re-
solve upon to be scrupulously respected; when
belligerent nations, under the impossibility of
making acquisitions upon us, will not lightly
hazard the giving us provocation ; when we
may choose peace or war, as our interest,
guided by justice, shall counsel.

Why forego the advantages of so peculiar a

Washington's farewell address. 365

situation? Why quit our own to stand upon
foreign ground? Why, by interweaving our
destiny with that of any part of Europe, en-
tangle our peace and prosperity in the toils of
European ambition, rivalship, interest, humor
or caprice ?

It is our true policy to steer clear of perma-
nent alliances with any portion of the foreign
world ; so far, I mean, as Ave are now at liberty
to do it ; for let me -not be understood as capa-
ble of patronizing infidelity to existing engage-
ments.^ I hold the maxim no less applicable to
public than to private affairs, that honesty is
always the best policv^ I repeat, therefore, let
those engagements be observed in their genuine
sense. But, in my opinion, it is unnecessary,
and would be unwise, to extend them.

Taking care always to keep ourselves, by
suitable establishments, on a respectable defen-
sive posture, we may safely trust to temporary
alliances for extraordinary emergencies.
y Harmony, and a liberal intercourse with all
nations, are recommended by policy, humanity
and interest. ^ But even our commercial policy
should hold an equal and impartial hand ;
neither seeking nor granting exclusive favors
or preferences ; consulting the natural course
31=^

366 Washington's farewell address.

of things ; diffusing and diversifying by gentle
means the stream of commerce, but forcing
nothing ; establishing with powers so disposed,
in order to give trade a stable course, to define
the rights of our merchants, and to enable the
government to support them, conventional rules
of intercourse, the best that present circum-
stances and natural opinion will permit, but
temporary, and liable to be, from time to time,
abandoned or varied, as experience and circum-
stances shall dictate ; constantly keeping in
view that it is folly in one nation to look for
disinterested favors from another ; that it must
pay with a portion of its independence for what-
ever it may accept under that character ; that
by such acceptance it may place itself in the
condition of having given equivalents for nomi-
nal favors, and yet of being reproached with
ingratitude for not giving more. A There can be
no greater error than to expect or calculate upon
real favors from nation to nation. / It is an illu-
sion which experience must cure, which a just
pride ought to discard.

In offering to you, my countrymxen, these
counsels of an old, affectionate friend, I dare
not hope they will make the strong and lasting
impression I could wish — that they will control

WASHINGTON S FAREWELL ADDRESS.

367

the usual current of the passions, or prevent
our nation from running the course which has
hitherto marked the destiny of nations. But
if I may even flatter myself that they may be
productive of some partial benefit, some occa-
sional good ; that they may now and then re-
cur to moderate the fury of party spirit; to
warn against the mischiefs of foreign intrigue ;
to guard against the impostures of pretended
patriotism ; this hope will be a full recompense
for the solicitude for your welfare by which they
have been dictated.

How far, in the discharge of my official du-
ties, I have been guided by the principles which
have been delineated, the public records and
other evidences of my conduct must witness
to you and to the world. To myself, the
assurance of my own conscience is, that I
have at least believed myself to be guided by
them.

In relation to the still subsisting war in
Europe, my proclamation of the 22d of April,
]793, is the index to my plan. Sanctioned by
your approving voice, and by that of your repre-
sentatives in both houses of Congress, the spirit
of that measure has continually governed me,

368 Washington's farewell address.

uninfluenced by any attempt to deter or divert
me from it.

After deliberate examination, with the aids
of the best lights I could obtain, I was well
satisfied that our country, under all the circum-
stances of the case, had a right to take, and
was bound in duty and interest to take, a neu-
tral position. Having taken it, I determined,
as far as should depend upon me, to maintain
it with moderation, perseverance, and firm-
ness.

The considerations which respect the right to
hold this conduct, it is not necessary on this
occasion to detail. I will only observe, that,
according to my understanding of the matter,
that right, so far from being denied by any of
the belligerent powers, has been virtually ad-
mitted by all.

The duty of holding a neutral conduct may
be inferred, without anything more, from the
obligation which justice and humanity impose
on every nation, in cases in which it is free to
act, to maintain inviolate the relations of peace
and amity towards other nations.

The inducements of interest for observing
that conduct will best be referred to your own
reflections and experience. With me, a pre-

Washington's farewell address. 369

dominant motive has been to endeavor to gain
time to our country to settle and mature its yet
recent institutions, and to progress without in-
terruption to that degree of strength and con-
stancy which is necessary to give it, humanly
speaking, the command of its own fortune.

Though, ill reviewing the incidents of my
administration, I am unconscious of intentional
error, I am, nevertheless, too sensible of my
defects not to think it probable that I may have
committed many errors. Whatever they may
be, I fervently beseech the Almighty to avert
or mitigate the evils to which they may tend.
I shall also carry with me the hope that my
country will never cease to view them with in-
dulgence ; and that, after forty-five years of my
life dedicated to its service, with an upright
zeal, the faults of incompetent abilities will be
consigned to oblivion, as myself must soon be
to the mansions of rest.

Relying on its kindness in this as in other
things, and actuated by that fervent love to-
wards it, which is so natural to a man who
views in it the native soil of himself and his
progenitors for several generations, — I antici-
pate, with pleasing expectation, that retreat in
which I promise myself to realize, without

S70 Washington's farewell address.

alloy, the sweet enjoyment of partaking, in the
midst of my fellow-citizens, the benign influ-
ence of good laws under a free government —
the ever favorite object of my heart, and the
happy reward, as I trust, of our mutual cares,
labors, and dangers.

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' HEROES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

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D. D.

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— m